Houston Astros’ Framber Valdez Progresses in Injury Recovery, Aims for Timely Return

Houston Astros left-hander Framber Valdez is aiming to resume playing catch on Tuesday as part of his recovery from a sore left elbow, as reported by The Athletic. This step could be pivotal in his efforts to return by April 21, the date he becomes eligible to rejoin the team.

Valdez mentioned to reporters on Sunday that he did not undergo an MRI when examined by doctors upon returning to Kansas City. The Astros sidelined him from his scheduled start against the Texas Rangers last Monday after he reported elbow soreness following a throwing session, leading to his placement on the injured list the following day.

Unlike his teammate Justin Verlander, who required two rehab starts as he recovered from shoulder pain at the start of spring training, Valdez believes he will not need a rehab outing before his return. With a full spring training and two starts under his belt, Valdez has posted a solid 2.19 ERA in 12.1 innings, allowing 11 hits, three earned runs, and six walks while striking out 10.

Houston general manager Dana Brown, speaking on SportsTalk 790 on Sunday, expressed hope that Valdez would be ready to rejoin the rotation ahead of the Astros’ upcoming road trip to Mexico for a two-game series against the Colorado Rockies on April 27-28.

Should Valdez require a rehab start, it would likely align with his potential activation date. Valdez and Verlander are among several starting pitchers on the Astros working their way back from injuries, with José Urquidy recovering from a right forearm strain and not expected to return until at least May. Additionally, Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr. are rehabilitating from long-term injuries and are expected to be available later in the season.