PT TOMORROW: AL WEST—Houston, we have a problem

Houston Astros

Long-term injuries to rotation mainstays José Urquidy and Luis García—the latter awaiting Tommy John surgery and out for the remainder of 2023—have suddenly left HOU in a precarious position while attempting to defend its AL West dominance. The lack of rotation depth was something we first noted here in February following the free agent defection of Justin Verlander. But these new IL casualties now stacked upon Lance McCullers' (RHP, HOU) pre-season elbow strain has the club scrambling way too early, calling up both Brandon Bielak (RHP, HOU) and J.P. France (RHP, HOU) for abbreviated starts—names that weren't prominent on IP projections anywhere at the beginning of 2023.

Both pitchers are late-20-somethings age-wise and...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Fermin seizes starting C role in SD; almost Lawlar time in ARI; youngsters getting a look in COL; bullpen reinforcements coming in LA; RF opportunity for Gilbert in SF
Aug 14 2025 3:05am
Paul Goldschmidt's struggles against righties and Austin Wells' offensive struggles have led to an uptick in Ben Rice's playing time. Plus, France is emerging in Toronto, and more.
Aug 13 2025 3:10am
With the return of Jake Burger and Evan Carter soon, the Rangers have a major platoon situation brewing.
Aug 12 2025 3:08am
Graham Pauley and the plucky Marlins try to keep riding the wave in Miami. Plus: Cacalli in WAS; Profar in ATL; Walker in PHI; SPs at NYM; more.
Aug 11 2025 3:08am
The best team in baseball is adding another arm with closing experience.
Aug 9 2025 3:07am

Tools