The Astros have surged ahead of the free-falling Mariners to take control of the AL West after a rough start to the season, and they’ve largely done that without one of their best hitters. Outfielder Kyle Tucker was nothing short of incredible early in the season with a .266/.395/.584 slash line in 60 games that helped to keep Houston afloat in the midst of their early-season … [Read more...] about West Notes: Tucker, Darvish, Doval
Astros Shut Down Penn Murfee’s Rehab Assignment
Right-hander Penn Murfee began a rehab assignment last week but made just one appearance and will now be shut down. Per Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle, the righty has been returned from that rehab assignment due to what the team calls “a reoccurrence of right elbow discomfort.” Murfee, now 30, got out to a strong start in his major league career. He made 80 appearances … [Read more...] about Astros Shut Down Penn Murfee’s Rehab Assignment
Astros Activate Justin Verlander
Justin Verlander is back. The Astros announced Wednesday that the 41-year-old right-hander has been reinstated from the injured list. Fellow righty Seth Martinez was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land in his place. Verlander will start today’s home game against the visiting Red Sox — his first appearance since June 9. Verlander opened the season on the 15-day IL after some … [Read more...] about Astros Activate Justin Verlander
Astros To Sign Héctor Neris
The Astros are signing right-hander Héctor Neris, reports Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 on X. The righty was released by the Cubs earlier this week. Assuming it’s a major league deal, the Astros will need to make corresponding moves to get the righty onto their active and 40-man rosters once the deal is made official. Neris, 35, returns to an organization that he has had success … [Read more...] about Astros To Sign Héctor Neris
Alex Bregman Discusses Elbow Soreness
Alex Bregman returned to the Astros’ lineup this afternoon, hitting atop the order while playing designated hitter. Bregman’s leadoff homer accounted for the only run in a 4-1 loss to the Red Sox. That was his first at-bat in a week, as the two-time All-Star hadn’t played since last Wednesday because of inflammation in his right elbow. Bregman’s return to the order doesn’t mean … [Read more...] about Alex Bregman Discusses Elbow Soreness