Astros’ Pena Progresses, France Shines in Rain-Shortened Game Against Cardinals

In a promising sign for the Houston Astros, shortstop Jeremy Pena has resumed throwing and is set to begin swinging a bat this weekend. Although he has yet to be ruled out for Opening Day, his recovery remains a focal point for the team’s early preparations.

Utility player Zach Dezenzo is currently limited to designated hitter duties, but encouraging news surrounds his elbow—there are no structural issues reported. Manager Joe Espada had initially planned to give his starters some playing time in today’s matchup against the St. Louis Cardinals, but wet field conditions forced a change in strategy.

Starting pitcher J.P. France took the mound for the Astros, delivering a solid outing over four innings. He allowed just one run on three hits, striking out four batters without issuing a walk, while throwing 38 of his 51 pitches for strikes. France primarily worked in the 91-92 MPH range with his fastball and sinker, hitting 93 MPH once. He also showcased his cutter, curve, and changeup during the game.

Although France projects as minor league depth for the Astros this season, his determination and ability to set up pitches efficiently are notable, especially after undergoing a challenging shoulder capsule surgery that often impacts velocity. He may find his niche in long relief, potentially earning another chance in the majors.

Relievers Steven Okert, A.J. Blubaugh, and Kai-Wei Teng also contributed by throwing shutout innings. Okert, who is a strong candidate for the bullpen, recorded 16 strikes out of 25 pitches, allowing no hits and striking out one. Blubaugh was efficient as well, throwing five of nine pitches for strikes and starting an inning-ending double play, while Teng followed suit with six of nine strikes, also not allowing a hit or walk.

In a strategic move, utility player Shay Whitcomb pinch-hit for Yordan Alvarez in the sixth inning, as Espada opted to pull starters early due to the wet conditions. Whitcomb went 0-for-2 but drove in the Astros’ lone run of the day with a groundout, showcasing his situational awareness by hitting to the right side to allow James Nelson to score and Tommy Sacco to advance to third base. This aspect of situational hitting is crucial for the Astros, particularly after struggles in 2025.

Despite the run, the Astros could not capitalize further, as Riley Unroe flew out to shallow center and Sacco was thrown out at the plate trying to tag up. While Whitcomb is unlikely to secure a spot on the Opening Day roster, he has demonstrated improved defensive skills across multiple positions, hit .267 this spring, and could serve as minor league depth or an injury replacement during the season.

As the team continues to navigate the spring training landscape, the presence of players like Nelson, Sacco, and Unroe is more about development, as they are not expected to see significant MLB time with Houston this season.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.