Astros Finalize Opening Day Roster The Houston Astros have officially finalized their Opening Day roster, with several key decisions impacting the team’s depth and future plans. Shortstop Jeremy Pena will avoid a season-opening trip to the injured list after recovering from a fractured finger sustained during an exhibition game. Catcher César Salazar was designated for assignment (DFA), clearing a 40-man roster spot for Christian Vázquez, who was called up from Triple-A Sugar Land. Right-handed pitcher Christian Roa was selected from the minor leagues, while left-handed pitcher Brandon Walter was placed on the 60-day injured list (IL) to make room. Outfielder Zach Cole was optioned to Triple-A, and prospect Brice Matthews made the roster. Several players will begin the season on the injured list, including outfielder Zach Dezenzo, who is sidelined with a right elbow sprain. Right-handed pitcher Ronel Blanco, recovering from Tommy John surgery, and left-handed pitcher Josh Hader, dealing with biceps tendinitis, will start the year on the 15-day IL. Right-handed pitcher Enyel De Los Santos (right knee strain), left-handed pitcher Bennett Sousa (oblique strain), right-handed pitcher Nate Pearson (recovering from elbow surgery), and right-handed pitcher Hayden Wesneski (recovering from Tommy John surgery) are also on the 15-day IL. Blanco and Wesneski could be added to the 60-day IL if the Astros need to open a 40-man roster spot. Pena’s status was uncertain after his injury, but he resumed hitting earlier this week and was cleared to join the team. Vázquez’s call-up was already expected, as was Salazar’s DFA. While the DFA doesn’t guarantee a trade, Salazar could still be moved to another club within five days if a team is willing to add him to its 40-man roster.#christian_vazquez #houston_astros #christian_roa #jeremy_pena #cesar_salazar
