Framber Valdez optioned to Round Rock. Rogelio Armenteros returns to 25-man roster

Framber Valdez, after allowing six runs in four innings as primary pitcher last night against the Angels, was optioned to AAA Round Rock today. Replacing him on the 25-man roster is Rogelio Armenteros in his second stint with the club this year.

Valdez showed promise at times this year, especially in his ability to induce ground balls with his breaking pitches. However, in his last fours starts his ERA is 15.55, although his xFIP is a slightly more R rated 5.83. For the year his ERA is 5.58, with a 4.19 xFIP and 4.52 SIERA.

In five innings with the Astros earlier this year, Armenteros compiled a 3.60 ERA and a 3.77 xFIP. He is expected to be the primary pitcher against the Angels tonight, following opener Hector Rondon.

The Astros’ quest for a fourth and fifth starter continues with injuries or inconsistency from expected mainstays such as Brad Peacock, Collin McHugh, and Josh James. The trade deadline is in two weeks.