Rodriguez Set for Monday Return

 The Houston Astros are set to welcome back starter Wandy Rodriguez.  The left hander will take the mound Monday in the club’s series finale against the Atlanta Braves.

The 32 year old has been out since May 22nd with fluid buildup in his throwing elbow.  Rodriguez knew something was wrong as he began experiencing pain when throwing his curveball.

Houston will welcome back anything that could promote consistency from its rotation.  Astros starters had the 27th worst ERA in the majors entering Friday.  The only other pitcher who’s shown signs of competency other than Rodriguez has been Bud Norris.

Rodriguez took an ERA of 3.41 and a 1.33 WHIP with him to the DL.  In his final rehab start, he was able to throw 56 pitches over 4 innings of work for the Astros Double-A affilitate.

Manager Brad Mills has not shared his decision of who will be bumped in place of Rodriguez.

Astros prospect Jordan Lyles got the call after Rodriguez was placed on the DL, and may be the roster casualty when he returns.

Over two starts, Lyles has managed a 4.91 ERA, striking out 7 while walking only 1 over 11 innings of work.  The 20 year old will get at least one more opportunity to show Houston his stuff Saturday against the Braves.