I'm not sure if this is worthy of a Fanpost, but with the new MLB rules concerning paternity leaves, the Astros would have a chance to call a player up in Downs's absence. Downs is most likely not going to be out for more than three days, but I wonder what the Astros would like to do, given then chance. The Astros could call up bullpen help, either calling up Fulchino or Valdez for a 3-day stint, or possibly longer if they decide to send someone else down. But we just got back from the All-star break, so we really don't need bullpen help. Since Tommy Manzella & Jimmy Paredes are on the 40-man roster, they could call one of them up. It would be pretty stupid since they would waste an option on 1 of the players. And there's always the option of calling up J.R. Towles if the FO wants to give him 1 last chance.

But since it's only 3 days, I'd probably do nothing. Anyway, thoughts?