The Astros are placing starter Zack Greinke and corner infielder Taylor Jones on the COVID-19 injured list, Mark Berman of Fox 26 was among those to pass along. Righty Josh James and infielder Robel García have been recalled in corresponding moves.
It isn’t yet clear whether either of Greinke or Jones has actually tested positive for the virus. Players can land on the COVID list for feeling viral symptoms or for exposure. However, manager Dusty Baker told reporters (including Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle) that Greinke won’t make his next scheduled start. Greinke last pitched on Sunday, when he was tagged for six runs in four innings against the Rangers. That brought his season line to a 3.66 ERA/4.55 SIERA across 159 2/3 innings.
That rotation spot could be filled by José Urquidy. The righty has been on a minor league rehab assignment for around two weeks. Urquidy, who has a 3.38 ERA in 77 1/3 innings, hasn’t pitched since June 29 because of shoulder discomfort.
Wonder if James still has the heat. Could be big in September
More positive tests, players better start being more careful again
Nice to see these teams using the CV IL for struggling players and blaming it on an illness. MLB is a joke.