McCullers (shoulder) is expected to pitch in minor league games early next week, setting him up for a return to the Astros in late April or early May, Jon Morosi of FOX Sports reports.
McCullers threw a 30-pitch simulated game Wednesday, apparently completing the session without incident. He'll still need to head out on a rehab assignment, but he could be available in the majors by mid-to-late April, potentially knocking Scott Feldman or Doug Fister from the rotation.