Injury news, along with updates from notes posted earlier today.
Lance Berkman is not in the starting lineup today, but Cooper says he is available to pinch hit if necessary.
Doug Brocail threw about 30 pitches in a simulated game today, and “proclaimed it a success. He will throw a bullpen on Monday and then will go to Round Rock on Monday for a rehab assignment.
Chris Sampson was put on the DL today with spasms in his right shoulder. Chad Paronto was called up and will be in LA on Thursday. Sampson had already left the team prior to being put on the DL to be with his wife, who is close to delivering their second son (a couple of weeks early).
Aaron Boone will join the Astros next Thursday to begin working towards a September comeback.
[H]e said he’d love to play again this year and mentioned a September return as a very real possibility. That would require him to spend at least a month rehabbing in the Minor Leagues, and it appears that the timetable is working in his favor. I love the idea of Booooone playing with the Astros in September, especially if they’re in a playoff race. Rosters will expand to 40, so no one would have to be sent out in order to make room for Boone, and he would be a tremendous presence in the clubhouse during the stretch run.
In other Aaron Boone news, he and his wife welcomed a new baby girl to their family on Wednesday.
“J.R. Towles broke his nose in a tractor mishap during the All-Star break, but he is still able to play.” Yet another reason to rethink the whole ‘rodeo clown thingie…
Dr. James Andrews recommended a few weeks of rest to Brandon Backe. No surgery pending. Could have it later.