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Astros Pitcher Sent Down Despite Strong Camp
21 Mar
Summary
- J.P. France was informed he won't make the opening day roster.
- He will likely start the season with Triple-A Sugar Land.
- France had a strong spring training performance.
The Houston Astros have decided that pitcher J.P. France will start the season in the minor leagues, a decision stemming from the team's deep starting pitching rotation. France was informed of this development as the team prepared to break camp. He will likely be assigned to the Triple-A Sugar Land team to begin the season, serving as valuable depth.
France had a commendable performance during spring training, posting a 3.86 ERA in 11.2 innings pitched. Despite his effectiveness, particularly as a long reliever, the Astros' need for setup men and the surplus of starting pitchers, including Cy Young finalist Hunter Brown, shifted priorities. France previously made his MLB debut in 2023 after recovering from shoulder surgery.
His journey back included a significant rehabilitation period following surgery for a torn right shoulder capsule. He returned late in 2025 and pitched in relief. France is not currently on the 40-man roster after being designated for assignment in January, accepting an assignment to Sugar Land. He continues to work towards a potential return to the Majors.
