France can’t start for Astros because of family emergency, Urquidy on mound vs. D-backs
Associated Press
Houston Astros starting pitcher J.P. France throws against the Kansas City Royals during the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) (David J. Phillip, Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)
PHOENIX – The Houston Astros had to shuffle their pitching staff during some of the most important games of the season.
Right-hander J.P. France was scratched from Friday's start against the Arizona Diamondbacks because of a family emergency. Manager Dusty Baker didn't elaborate on France's situation but said he wasn't sure whether the pitcher would be able to return to the team this weekend.
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France is 11-6 with a 3.83 ERA this season. The Astros replaced him with right-hander José Urquidy, who entered 2-3 with a 5.84 ERA.
The bullpen is also down a key piece after right-hander Ryne Stanek was placed on paternity leave. The Astros called up righty Seth Martinez from Triple-A Sugar Land to take his spot on the roster.
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