Astros scratch LHP Framber Valdez (elbow soreness) vs. Rangers

Field Level Media|published: Mon 8th April, 18:52 2024

Apr 2, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Framber Valdez (59) walks off the field after pitching during the fifth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Minute Maid Park. credits: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Astros scratched All-Star left-handed starter Framber Valdez on Monday, citing left elbow soreness.

Valdez, 30, was slated to start the series finale against the host Texas Rangers. But manager Joe Espada told reporters before the game that Valdez felt soreness Sunday while playing catch.

The team sent him back to Houston for evaluation but has not put him on the injured list.

Valdez is 0-0 with a 2.19 ERA through two starts this season, most recently tossing 7 2/3 scoreless innings against the Toronto Blue Jays in a game Houston ultimately lost. Valdez was named an All-Star in 2022 and 2023 and owns a career 3.38 ERA.

The Astros recalled right-hander Blair Henley from Triple-A Sugar Land to start Monday. He will make his major league debut.

—Field Level Media