Astros center fielder Jake Marisnick could be held out until Padres series

OAKLAND, Calif. — Jake Marisnick said he hit and run around Saturday and that everything felt good after doing so, but the Astros might want to give the hot-hitting center fielder at least one more day off.

Marisnick sat out Friday and Saturday because of soreness in his iliotibial band, or IT band — in the thigh area — of his right leg.

“Jake, we’ll well monitor him day to day,” manager A.J. Hinch said Saturday morning. “He’s available but I’m going to try not to use him unless I have to. He’s bouncing around fine. I’m hopeful for (Sunday), but if it’s not (Sunday) and he needs another day we’re going to still be cautious with him.”

Marisnick’s been one of the Astros’ most consistent hitters, out of the No. 9 hole no less, hitting .350.

The Astros start a three-game series with the Padres on Monday in San Diego.

35