The Astros haven't had much bad news lately. Sure, they lost Friday night, but that was to the Indians and only moved the Astros' May record to 13-4.
On Saturday, there was more bad news -- but it's a bit fitting that it's not really that bad.
Ace Dallas Keuchel was placed on the 10-day disabled list due to a pinched nerve in his neck on Saturday. So that would be bad, but Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports that the team only expects Keuchel to miss one start. See? That's not horrible.
Keuchel, 29, is a big reason the Astros are awesome this year. He followed up his Cy Young with a down 2016 season, but in 2017 he's been even better than the 2015 version. Through nine starts, he's 7-0 with a 1.84 ERA, 0.86 WHIP and 54 strikeouts against 14 walks in 63 2/3. The Astros have gone 8-1 in his starts, including seven straight wins.
So, sure, it's a hit to lose Keuchel at all, but if the team is right and he only misses one start, they can probably afford that.
Collin McHugh isn't expected back until the second half and the Astros don't appear to have anyone in the minors lined up. Plus, lefty reliever Ashur Tolliver is the corresponding move for Keuchel hitting the DL. As such, expect reliever Brad Peacock to get the spot start on Monday in Keuchel's turn.
