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The Triple-A Fresno Grizzlies fans will have a treat on Opening Day. The Grizzlies will have an Astros starting rotation staple taking the ball on Opening Day for Fresno.
Collin McHugh expected to make a rehab start for AAA Fresno Thursday. He's on 10-day DL with right shoulder tendinitis. #astros
— Julia Morales (@JuliaMorales) April 4, 2017
Collin McHugh will make a rehab start on Thursday in the Grizzlies' season opener against the Reno Aces at home in Chukchansi Park.
McHugh, 29, has dealt with a “dead arm” during spring training, which limited his time on the mound. He started a rehab program with a simulated game in West Palm Beach and a bullpen session at Minute Maid Park on Monday.
But McHugh will see his first live hitters on Thursday, and he will making his first start in the minor leagues since 2014 with Triple-A Oklahoma City.
McHugh was in line to be the Astros No. 3 starter behind Dallas Keuchel and Lance McCullers. McHugh would likely replace Brad Peacock on the 25-man roster and the tougher decision is who McHugh would replace in the starting rotation.