Houston Astros Moves Top Starting Pitcher To Injured List

The Houston Astros made a move on their top left-handed starting pitcher one day after scratching him from a start.

Mar 31, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Framber Valdez (59) works out prior to the game against the New York Yankees at Minute Maid Park. / Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Astros moved left-handed starting pitcher Framber Valdez to the 15-day injured list on Tuesday with left elbow inflammation after was examined by team doctors on Tuesday.

Valdez is now the fifth starting pitcher the Astros have on the injured list.

Justin Verlander is on the 15-day injured list and in the middle of a rehab assignment in the minor leagues as he recovers from a shoulder ailment.

José Urquidy is on the 15-day injured list as he recovers from a right forearm strain that he suffered at the tail end of spring training.

Two other pitchers are working their way back from long-term injuries and will be available later this season — Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr.

Valdez was scratched from Monday’s start against the Texas Rangers after he informed team officials about soreness in his left elbow after a throwing session. The Astros sent Valdez back to Houston for an examination with team doctors.

Valdez has only made two starts this season and has no decision. But he has a 2.19 ERA in 12 1/3 innings, allowing 11 hits, three earned runs and six walks. He struck out 10.

To take his place on the roster the Astros recalled pitcher Parker Mushinski from Triple-A. Mushinski was just sent back to the minors by Houston, but he can be recalled before the 15-day waiting period if he is taking the place of a player on the injured list.  

The Astros called up Blair Henley to take Valdez’s start. The Astros optioned him back after a Major League debut in which he was only able to record one out. Pitcher Wander Suero was called up to replace Henley.