In terms of injury news, Wednesday was a mixed bag for the Houston Astros.
On the one hand, they got disappointing news on their ace, Justin Verlander. The three-time Cy Young winner has been dealing with a shoulder injury and is several weeks behind schedule in his throwing program, putting his status for Opening Day in jeopardy.
On the other hand, the Astros got an encouraging update from a different pitcher in their starting rotation who's also been hampered by a shoulder issue.
Fortunately for Houston, J.P. France has a more positive outlook on his injury than Verlander.
Speaking with reporters during the first day of Spring Training on Wednesday, France revealed that he initially felt discomfort in his right shoulder during a bullpen session two weeks ago. An MRI showed inflammation, forcing him to stop throwing for a week.
Fortunately, France is back to throwing off flat ground and doesn't believe his injury is too serious.
"We're back to feeling good. We're just taking it slow, playing it safe," he said after throwing the past several days.
When asked if he was concerned about missing Opening Day, France replied, "I'm not worried about anything."
He also described his injury as "just a little inflammation."
France is taking it slow to ramp back up and avoid any setbacks, but it sounds like his shoulder is doing better. As long as he keeps progressing throughout Spring Training, he'll likely be ready for the start of the season.
That's great news for the Astros, who are counting on France to be a key member of their rotation again in 2024. The 28-year-old righty is coming off a strong rookie season after going 11-6 with a 3.83 ERA in 136 1/3 innings last year.
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