Astros in the news: injuries and roster drama hit as Imai, Pena among players sidelined; Texas-based MLB powerhouse deal with roster hiccups. Bio: Houston Astros, MLB team in AL West, big-name franchise with World Series titles.
Japanese pitcher Imai has been placed on the injured list with arm fatigue after a difficult start to his MLB debut with Houston. He cites adjustment issues, including mound differences and lifestyle changes, as key factors. The Astros face ongoing injury challenges early in the season, impacting their rotation and performance.
Bob Skinner, a 12-season Major League Baseball veteran who helped the Pittsburgh Pirates win the 1960 World Series, the 1979 World Series as a coach, and later coached for several teams, has died in San Diego at age 94. He is remembered for his contributions as a player and as a respected coach and scout.
René Cárdenas has died at his Houston home at age 96. A trailblazing broadcaster, he became the first full-time Spanish-language MLB broadcaster with the Dodgers in 1958 and helped launch multiple Spanish-language broadcasts across MLB franchises, including the Astros, Rangers and Dodgers.