A key part of the Houston Astros lineup could return in time for their final playoff push.

Chandler Rome of The Athletic reported that Astros manager Joe Espada said that shortstop Carlos Correa "could be ready to go" sometime in September. Correa had been sidelined since he tore the peroneus brevis tendon in his left ankle on May 5 and had undergone what was expected to be season-ending surgery.

Correa, however, had been working to return earlier than expected. He began baseball activities in early August with an eye toward a return to the lineup. Correa has been taking batting practice, fielding ground balls and running at close to full speed. 

Carlos Correa could be difference-maker for Houston Astros down the stretch

Correa had rediscovered his previous form after he was sent back to Houston ahead of the 2025 trade deadline. He picked up where he left off to begin the season, posting a .279/.369/.418 batting line in his 141 plate appearances before landing on the IL, hitting three home runs and eight doubles.

There is no guarantee that Correa will return to the lineup. He has another doctor's appointment in the coming days, which could clear him to ramp up his activity. The Astros are encouraged by his progress thus far, but he needs medical clearance before taking the next steps.

Correa will need time before he can return to the lineup and will likely have several rehab appearances before returning to Houston. However, there is a chance that he could return for the final few weeks of the regular season. As the Astros are battling the Rangers and Mariners for the AL West title, Correa's potential return could be the difference if he returns to form.