Astros' Top Pitching Prospect Could Make Roster After Verlander Injury

One of beneficiaries of Justin Verlander's injury news could be the Houston Astros' top pitching prospect.

Nobody wants to see injuries, especially not to a star player like the Houston Astros' ace Justin Verlander.

But, getting banged up is the reality during this time period as players get used to live action and their bodies get used to the new stress of competing in baseball games and activities.

Verlander came into camp behind schedule because of a shoulder issue he was dealing with.

There was some hope that he might be able to recover in time for Opening Day after getting positive news following his bullpen session, but it was going to be tight.

Now the Astros have officially announced that he's going on the injured list to start the year.

With that comes the mentality that it's the next man up.

Someone is going to benefit from Verlander missing time early in the season, and it seems like that could be Houston's top-rated pitching prospect Spencer Arrighetti.

Rated as their No. 3 prospect overall, he's had an interesting minor league career so far that doesn't suggest he might be ready for MLB action, however, he projects to be a back-end starter during his career and could get that opportunity in 2024.

Outside of Verlander dealing with something, J.P. France also has an injury of his own that could cause him to miss time. Combine that with Lance McCullers Jr. and Luis Garcia probably not being available until summer, and there's a rotation spot up for grabs.

The Astros have been impressed with Arrighetti in camp and during the exhibition period so far.

In his lone start, the right-hander threw two scoreless innings, only giving up one hit, striking out three batters, and not allowing a single walk.

His control has been a major issue for him during his career, so not walking anyone is a great sign.

Arrighetti was talked about as a potential late season call-up, or even a bullpen piece, but it looks like he could earn his first Major League experience to start 2024.