The Houston Astros made multiple roster moves ahead of Monday night's series opener against the Miami Marlins, activating right-hander Ronel Blanco and left-handed reliever Bennett Sousa from the 60-day injured list. To clear roster space, the club optioned infielder Raynel Delgado and left-hander Bryan King to Triple-A Sugar Land.
Blanco is set to make his long-awaited return to the mound Monday, marking his first major league appearance since undergoing season-ending elbow surgery in 2025. His activation gives Houston another experienced starter as it looks to stabilize its rotation.
Sousa also returns after missing significant time with elbow inflammation. The left-hander provides another late-inning option for manager Joe Espada as the Astros continue navigating injuries throughout their pitching staff.
Blanco emerged as an important part of Houston's rotation before his injury, and the Astros are hopeful he can quickly regain that form. While his workload is expected to be monitored early, his return comes at an important point in the season.
Sousa gives Houston another experienced bullpen arm after posting a strong 2025 campaign. Meanwhile, Delgado heads back to Triple-A after serving as infield depth during recent injuries to Christian Walker and Jeremy Peña.
The Astros entered Monday with a 47-54 record, sitting third in the American League West. They trail the division-leading Texas Rangers by four games as they attempt to climb back into the postseason race.
Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images
Houston hopes the return of Blanco and Sousa can provide an immediate lift to a pitching staff that has dealt with injuries for much of the season. Both pitchers are expected to play meaningful roles during the second half.
With the trade deadline approaching, the Astros will be counting on internal reinforcements before deciding whether additional moves are necessary to strengthen the roster for the stretch run.
ALSO SEE:
- MLB Home Run Predictions Today: Best HR Prop Bets for Monday, July 20
- NRFI and YRFI MLB Bets Today: Best First-Inning Predictions for Monday, July 20
- MLB Prop Bets Today: Best MLB Player Prop Predictions for Monday, July 20
