Two options to fill Astros’ last 40-man roster spot

The alternative to selecting a Triple-A contract.

If the club avoids the addition of a starter like Brown or France, they could explore the trade block for depth or wait out on a 60-day player. Timetables on returns for McCullers and Jones haven’t been reported, leaving the chance of an addition more likely.

While both players are eligible to return in over a month, short evaluations may behoove the franchise. Nonetheless, a club is never hurt by too-much rotational depth, which the Astros lacked during the 2021 campaign.

Following a 5-1 win Tuesday, the Astros return to play at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday. Cristian Javier is scheduled to start against righty Glen Otto.