Fried (hamstring) took part in fielding drills Tuesday and could return without making a rehab start, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Jumping into fielding drills seemed to be one of the final steps for Fried before making a rehab start, but it now seems that Atlanta could get its ace back earlier than expected. The 29-year-old lefty will resume covering first base Wednesday, at which point there could be a clearer picture regarding his return. He's first eligible to come off the injured list Saturday.