Estrada (thumb) was spotted taking batting practice prior to the Rockies' game Wednesday against the Cardinals, Kevin Henry of The Denver Gazette reports.
Estrada was placed on the 10-day injured list last Friday due to a right thumb sprain, but because his IL stint was retroactive to a week before that date, he'll be eligible for activation at any time. His ability to take BP on Wednesday suggests a return isn't far away, but Estrada may not be cleared to play during this weekend's series in Baltimore if the Rockies decide he needs to head out on a brief rehab assignment beforehand.