These are the ailing Astros. Felipe Paulino will be a non factor the rest of this season as he recovers from that pinched nerve. Everyone else is up in the air. Here's what I found about each:
Kaz Matsui- Last played in a game on August 12th, Kaz had complications recovering from the irritated disk that had put him on the shelf. It's been mentioned on the TV broadcasts that he may available to pinch hit if need be, but he doesn't appear to be ready to contribute on a consistent basis
Ty Wigginton- He's been day to day with an injured groin, and hasn't played since September 8th. He suffered a set back last Wednesday, but said he should be available to pinch hit on this road trip. The immediate prognosis was 8-10 days off so that should mean a return in the near future is likely. Hopefully.
Wandy Rodriguez-As of last week, Wandylicious was optimistic he could start against the Fish tomorrow, so the countdown is on.
Brandon Backe-The arm soreness that caused Backe to miss his start last Monday against Pittsburgh has subsided, and he has been re-inserted back into the rotation. Score.
Humberto Quintero-Q fouled a pitch off his knee yesterday against the Cubs, and Officer Brad came in to spell him the rest of the game. He's listed as day to day.
**Pipe Dream of the Week Injury Prognosis***- If. And I do mean if, the Astros make it all the way to the NLCS, the hope is that Carlos Lee will be ready to go. Ed Wade noted the fracture in his pinky is healing nicely, and Cecil Cooper has commented that if in fact the Astros make it to October, he expects El Caballo to be in left field.