The Houston Astros' medical staff has been busy this week, overseeing a slate of rehab assignments that promise to replenish a depleted pitching corps. Ronel Blanco and Lance McCullers Jr., both sidelined for the season, are slated to make their next starts on Tuesday, marking a critical checkpoint in their recovery trajectories.
Rehab Roadmap for the Rotation
McCullers is expected to take the mound for Triple‑A Sugar Land, where he previously logged four innings and 60 pitches, while Blanco will head to Double‑A Corpus Christi after a 41‑third inning outing that saw him reach the same pitch count. Both right‑handers have shown steady improvement, with Blanco’s latest effort highlighting his ability to handle a full workload.
Infield and Outfield Recovery
Shortstop Jeremy Peña is ramping up baseball activities this weekend after a left calf strain, with the possibility of appearing in one or two minor‑league rehab games early next week. Meanwhile, infielder Braden Shewmake exited a Triple‑A contest after a pitch struck his left wrist; X‑rays cleared him of fracture, and he remains on the mend. Outfielder Raynel Delgado, who dislocated his right pinky finger, stayed on the active roster and was available off the bench for the latest series.
Timeline and Roster Implications
Peña will become eligible for reinstatement from the 10‑day injured list next Friday against the Rangers, a timeline that could see him back in the lineup before the month’s end. The convergence of these rehab schedules not only bolsters the Astros' depth but also gives manager Joe Espada additional flexibility in shaping the postseason roster. Reporter Matt Kawahara has been tracking the developments, providing daily updates from the clubhouse.