This week, the Houston Astros added a critical piece to their bullpen with the acquisition of Mariners closer Kendall Graveman. ESPN Houston's John Granato and AJ Hoffman discuss how the Astros still have incentive and resources to make more moves, perhaps even a big trade for Max Scherzer. Plus, should the Astros be willing to trade Framber Valdez to get Scherzer? Check out the video to learn more.
Editor's note: This video was recorded before the Astros traded for Marlins reliever, Yimi Garcia.
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Astros pitcher Jose Urquidy made a lot of fans nervous on Friday when he exited his spring training start after just 43 pitches. Elbow pain reportedly was what cut his start short. Urquidy was then sent back to Houston for further evaluation.
Astros manager Joe Espada gave an injury update on Monday. According to MLB.com's Brain McTaggart, Urquidy is dealing with a forearm muscle strain and will likely begin the season on IL.
Urquidy has been diagnosed with a forearm muscle strain and won’t throw for a few days, manager Joe Espada said. He’s likely to start season on IL.
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) March 18, 2024
Based on the information we have, this sounds like good news for Houston. There was no mention of the UCL, or any other elbow issues which could lead to Tommy John surgery being necessary.
But with Justin Verlander and Urquidy being unavailable to start the season, the Astros will have to rely on their depth. As of today, the rotation to start the season should be: Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, Hunter Brown, JP France, and Ronel Blanco.