Hardy (back) hopes to return to baseball activities next week, Jon Meoli of the Baltimore Sun reports.

EDGE Analysis

The update comes via manager Buck Showalter, who noted that Hardy is progressing and "isn't too far behind schedule." Still, the Orioles will likely handle the veteran with caution throughout spring training, as Hardy has a history of back-related issues.

Hardy said his back is feeling much better after yesterday's injection, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.

EDGE Analysis

According to Hardy, yesterday's treatment was done to "get over the hump." There's not much concern about his Opening Day status at this point, but it'd be reassuring for fantasy owners to see him back on the practice field soon.

Hardy received a cortisone injection in his back, and manager Buck Showalter said it was scheduled, Rich Dubroff of PressBoxOnline.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hardy likely will sit a bit longer before resuming his spring preparation. Previous tests revealed no structural damage, so assuming he avoids setbacks, he should be set to roll on Opening Day.

Hardy's tests on his back came back clean, according to manager Buck Showalter, and he could be able to play in exhibition games by March 10, Roch Kubatko of MASN reports.

EDGE Analysis

The veteran underwent an MRI and a CT scan this week after starting to experience some back discomfort in late January. Fortunately, the tests didn't reveal anything worrisome, so Hardy will likely rest for the time being before resuming baseball activities later in spring training.

Hardy has undergone an MRI and CT scan on his back and has one more test coming, but he's not concerned with the injury, Rich Dubroff of PressBoxonline.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hardy said the pain started on Jan. 27, around the time of the Orioles' FanFest convention. The shortstop is aiming to be ready for baseball activities on March 1 so he can be ready for Opening Day. AL-only players should keep tabs on Hardy's progress before considering him as a midrange shortstop.

Hardy received an MRI on his back and will undergo more tests Friday, Brittany Ghiroli of MLB.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

This explains Hardy's absence from workouts since the O's began camp. Various injuries have contributed to him missing 95 games over the last two seasons, and his latest setback is worth watching. If he were to miss extended time again this year, Manny Machado may preserve shortstop eligibility for 2018 fantasy leagues.

Hardy went 3-for-4 with an RBI infield single and run in Friday's 5-4 victory over the Rays.

EDGE Analysis

The 34-year-old shortstop has been on a tear, with Friday's production bringing his September line to .370/.442/.565. Hardy has multi-hit efforts in four of his last seven games, and has hit safely in six of those contests overall. He's already exceeded his August RBI total of 10 in just 14 September games as well.

Hardy went 1-for-2 with two walks and a three-run homer in Tuesday's game against the Red Sox.

EDGE Analysis

Hardy's second-inning blast over the Green Monster was his ninth of the season, and his first since Aug. 29. The 34-year-old veteran struggled to a .211 average in August, but appears to have figured things out in September. Through 11 games this month, Hardy is 11-for-36 (.306) with six extra-base hits, seven RBI and five runs.

Hardy went 2-for-3 with a solo homer in Monday's game against the Blue Jays.

EDGE Analysis

Hardy's third-inning shot was his eighth of the season, and his first since hitting two in a game versus Houston on Aug. 18. Although he put together a solid effort Monday, the shortstop has been in a devastating slump recently that can't be overshadowed. Entering Monday's game, Hardy was just 4-for-33 over his previous 10 games.

Hardy went 3-for-4 with two home runs, three RBI and three runs scored versus the Astros on Thursday.

EDGE Analysis

Hardy's had a hard time staying healthy this season -- just 73 games -- but he's provided excellent defense and a league-average bat. His power showed signs of slowing down the past two seasons, but the 34-year-old's slugging percentage (.430) has jumped dramatically in 2016, making him a fantasy option in deeper leagues.