Correa says back is ‘feeling great’

Still recovering from the stiff back that has kept him on the disabled list since June 26, Carlos Correa said he was “on schedule” to begin swinging a bat Wednesday, another crucial step in his return from the disabled list.

“The back is feeling great; I think I’m getting better and better every single day,” Correa said. “I should be able to play at some point soon, whether it’s here or a rehab assignment.”

“Today is the most I’ve done since I hit the DL.”

Correa took ground balls and, for the first time, incorporated some throwing during his pregame work. He said he would try to swing in the batting cages later in the day.

Correa declined to provide a timetable for his return, but he did hint at the possibility of a rehab assignment during the weekend.

“This is the most stuff he’s done on a baseball field in recent days,” manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s bouncing around, very excited, very upbeat, very happy.He came into my office and was in great spirits. Those are good signs.”