Astros Manager Joe Espada Gives Latest Update On Framber Valdez Injury

Manager Joe Espada joins The Matt Thomas Show to review the Houston Astros splitting the Silver Boot Series 2-2 against the Texas Rangers.

The Astros tied the series with 10-5 victory Monday; however, hours before first pitch, expected starter Framber Valdez was scratched. Valdez "expressed some soreness and tightness in the forearm era" after playing catch ahead of his start, and "we are waiting to hear from [team doctors]," Espada said.

The Astros called up Blair Henley to make his major league debut, but the prospect had an unfortunate showing, facing nine batters and allowing five earned runs in just a third of an inning. "He prepared to the best of his ability," but "it happens to veteran pitchers" and he's "going to get another opportunity."

Despite a bad start, the bullpen "stepped-up big time" and allowed no additional scores. Seth Martinez is "fearless" and "he's not afraid to pound the zone."

First baseman Jose Abreu has slipped down the batting lineup, but Espada thinks "it's just a matter of time" before "he'll break out of it."

As Valdez deals with injury, the Astros are short at starting pitching. "This stretch right here is testing our will and focus."