Astros Start Framber Valdez on Regular Rest Against Rangers

The Houston Astros adjusted their pitching rotation to have Framber Valdez start on Sunday against the Texas Rangers, moving him up from a planned Monday start to maintain his regular rest and protect the health of the pitching staff. Valdez earned the win, pitching seven innings with eight strikeouts and allowing three runs, showcasing his durability and effectiveness. Manager Joe Espada cited Valdez's ability to recover quickly and his history of bouncing back as key reasons for this scheduling. Valdez has been a reliable presence for the Astros despite a 2-4 record and a 3.54 ERA this season, and he is scheduled to become a free agent after the year, which has led to speculation about a potential trade at the deadline to gain return assets. The Astros' recent willingness to trade star players before free agency, exemplified by the Kyle Tucker trade, supports this possibility. Meanwhile, rookie Colton Gordon is expected to start Monday, with other rotation spots to be filled by a sixth starter, potentially Ryan Gusto, who may move to a relief role.