Astros Option J.P. France, Recall Jayden Murray After Tatsuya Imai's Exit

The Astros made roster adjustments Friday after Tatsuya Imai left his start with right arm fatigue. The team optioned right-hander J.P. France to Triple-A and recalled Jayden Murray to fill the open spot. France had been recalled from the minors just two days earlier but struggled in his first appearance since returning from a long layoff.

France entered the game in the sixth inning and pitched 2 2/3 innings in the Astros' 9-6 loss to the Mariners. He walked four batters and allowed four earned runs. His outing included the game’s deciding runs, and he threw 59 pitches, making him unavailable for several days. The move to option France gives the Astros a chance to get a fresh arm into the mix.

J.P. France was designated for assignment in January but appears to be earning more chances with the big league club. His return to form has been slow after missing most of the 2024-25 season. Last year in Triple-A, he posted a 6.59 ERA in 24 innings while striking out 21.9% of batters. His walk rate was 17.2%, a clear sign of rust after a lengthy absence. However, in 168 1/3 career big league innings, France has a 4.49 ERA and 8.9% walk rate.

The move also comes as the Astros continue to monitor the status of Cristian Javier, who suffered a shoulder injury on Wednesday. Javier’s availability remains under evaluation, and the team is likely preparing for potential changes in their rotation or bullpen.

Jayden Murray, 29, joins the active roster as the last man in the bullpen. The right-hander was acquired by the Astros in a trade with the Rays in 2022 and has spent most of his time in Triple-A. In 50 relief appearances there in 2025, he posted a 4.64 ERA in 64 innings with a 10.6% walk rate. He made his major league debut last season in 11 2/3 innings with a 1.54 ERA, though his underlying numbers were less impressive.

With Murray now on the roster and France back in Triple-A, the Astros have flexibility as they navigate a tough stretch of the schedule. The team is set to face the Rays on Saturday night at Tropicana Field.