The Houston Astros are on the brink of becoming perennial contenders in the American League Western Division, but in order for them to begin that climb, they will need to have their roster at full strength. That strength includes getting back five of their injured players before Opening Day. Here are the latest updates on Jonathan Villar, Robbie Grossman, Josh Fields, Brett Oberholtzer, and Brad Peacock, courtesy of MLB.com's Brian McTaggart.
Jonathan Villar
Villar and Grossman collided in Wednesday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies. Villar suffered a mild right ankle sprain, and he is considered day-to-day. The Astros did not play Thursday, and Villar sat out team workouts. There is no word yet on how long he will stay out of action, but manager A.J. Hinch says that Villar, overall, will "be fine."
Robbie Grossman
Hinch said the same about Grossman, who could possibly play again Friday. Hinch, though, said that Grossman's playing will be a game-time decision. Grossman received a bruised left quad in the collision, but he did work out with the team Thursday. Hinch said that Grossman could play Friday but indicated that he will probably rest and return soon after.
Josh Fields
Fields, a reliever, left Monday's game with a groin strain. He has yet to throw off a mound since, but he has thrown lightly on flat ground. McTaggart says that Fields will likely wait a few more days to resume throwing off a mound. Fields says that he is unsure how long it will take, but he says, "...hopefully it won't be too long. Honestly, it's just day to day."
Brett Oberholtzer
The southpaw starter last pitched in a Grapefruit League game over a week ago. He has sat out since with a left lat strain. He pitched in a Minor League game Wednesday, throwing 46 pitches without feeling any discomfort. McTaggart says Oberholtzer will likely return to the Major League camp Sunday. The Astros Injury Report (as of March 26) lists him as returning "Likely Opening Day."
Brad Peacock
Starter Peacock had hip surgery to remove bone spurs and repair a torn labrum in October, and he has yet to appear in a Spring Training game. McTaggart says Peacock is "building up his pitch count" through bullpen sessions. The Astros Injury Report lists his return date as "Possibly April” but also says he will make his Grapefruit League debut on Sunday, March 29.
McTaggart reported that Peacock is scheduled to throw three to four innings Sunday depending on his pitch count. This work should allow Peacock to open the season with a Minor League rehab assignment even if on the disabled list. McTaggart quoted Peacock saying, "I'm feeling good and can't wait to see what I got when I get out there."