Astros manager Joe Espada said Thursday that Valdez (elbow) is feeling better and could play catch within the next few days, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Valdez was placed on the injured list Tuesday with left elbow inflammation, but it's certainly a good sign that he's made improvement after a few days of rest. A potential timetable for the southpaw's return won't be available until he ramps up his throwing again, but the Astros seem optimistic that it won't be a long-term absence for Valdez.