PHOENIX – The Houston Astros had to shuffle their pitching staff during some of the most important games of the season.
Right-hander J.P. France was scratched from Friday's start against the Arizona Diamondbacks because of a family emergency. Manager Dusty Baker didn't elaborate on France's situation but said he wasn't sure whether the pitcher would be able to return to the team this weekend.
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France is 11-6 with a 3.83 ERA this season. The Astros replaced him with right-hander José Urquidy, who entered 2-3 with a 5.84 ERA.
The bullpen is also down a key piece after right-hander Ryne Stanek was placed on paternity leave. The Astros called up righty Seth Martinez from Triple-A Sugar Land to take his spot on the roster.
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AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB