The struggling Houston Astros optioned right-handed starter JP France to Triple-A Sugar Land Friday, clearing the way for the team to activate left-hander Framber Valdez from the 15-day injured list.

Astros manager Joe Espada told reporters Thursday night that Valdez, who has been sidelined by soreness in his left elbow, likely would start Sunday in Mexico City against the Colorado Rockies.

The teams also match up in Mexico City on Saturday.

France, 29, posted an 0-3 record and a 7.46 ERA over his first five starts (25 1/3 innings) this season after a strong 2023 performance during which he delivered a 3.83 ERA in 136 1/3 innings.

The 30-year-old Valdez (0-0, 2.19), an All-Star in 2022 and 2023, has made two starts this season, allowing 11 hits and three runs, walking six and striking out 10 in 12 1/3 innings.

The 7-19 Astros, tied with the Rockies for the third-worst mark in the majors entering Friday, also will recall 1B/OF Trey Cabbage as their 27th man for the Mexico City series, according to MLB.com.

-Field Level Media