Astros Drop Two Of Last Three
Quad Injury Delays James' Spring

Tucker: Bends it like Beckham
(c) Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle
Since sweeping two games on Sunday, the Astros tied the New York Mets, 3-3, then lost games to Miami, 3-0, and Washington, 14-8. The starting pitchers have fared well so far although Collin McHugh allowed a run on Wednesday. Justin Verlander, Gerrit Cole, Framber Valdez and prospect Forrest Whitley all looked good in their spring debuts.

However, Houston suffered their first spring injury when starting candidate Josh James strained a quad muscle while lifting weights. The setback will knock him out of the fifth starter competition which leaves Valdez and veteran Brad Peacock as the likely finalists for the spot.

Manager A.J. Hinch also mentioned that the team will open the season with 12 pitchers instead of 13 due to an April with several off days to keep the arms fresh. This means one more non-pitcher will have a roster spot to fight for.

That's good news for outfielders Jake Marisnick, Tony Kemp and top prospect Kyle Tucker - at least for now. Kemp is out of options so he would need to clear waivers if he cannot make the Opening Day squad.

Tucker has had a hot start. The 2015 1st-rounder is 4-for-9 so far. Ronnie Dawson, a non-roster invitee who was picked in the second round in 2016, has made his name known with a 5-for-10 start. Nick Tanielu has been 4-for-8 with a home run and a team-leading six RBIs.

On Thursday, the Astros will host the Marlins in West Palm then have the St. Louis Cardinals visit on Friday evening. Saturday afternoon will be a road trip to take on the Mets.

- Bob Hulsey