The Houston Astros announced on Sunday that rookie outfielder Zach Dezenzo has been placed on the 10-day injured list because of inflammation in his left hand. This move follows Dezenzo’s exit during Saturday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays, in which he went 1-for-2 with a run scored before leaving the 16-3 loss. Over 34 games this season, Dezenzo has a batting average of .245 with two home runs and 10 RBIs. Entering 2024, he has appeared in 19 games and holds a career batting average of .244, along with four home runs and 18 RBIs in 53 total Major League games.
Jacob Melton promoted to fill outfield spot
In conjunction with Dezenzo’s placement on the injured list, the Astros selected the contract of Jacob Melton from their Triple-A affiliate in Sugar Land. Melton, 24, is highly regarded within the organization, ranked the No. 2 prospect by MLB Pipeline and the top prospect by Baseball America. Drafted in the second round of the 2022 MLB Draft from Oregon State, Melton made his MLB debut Sunday by starting in center field. Batting eighth, he recorded a single in three at-bats during Houston’s 1-0 win over Tampa Bay, although he also struck out twice in the game.
Roster adjustments due to injuries
To accommodate Melton’s addition to the 40-man roster, the Astros moved right-hander Ronel Blanco from the 15-day to the 60-day injured list. Blanco is scheduled to undergo season-ending right elbow surgery this week, effectively sidelining him for the remainder of the season. This series of moves reflects Houston’s need to manage player availability while maintaining roster flexibility amid ongoing injuries.
Implications for the Astros’ roster and future outlook
Dezenzo’s placement on the 10-day injured list and Melton’s promotion highlight Houston’s focus on providing opportunities to promising young talent as they cope with injuries. Melton’s debut offers fresh options in the outfield, which could prove significant for the Astros as they continue through the season. Meanwhile, Blanco’s surgery underscores challenges on the pitching side. The team’s ability to adapt through these roster changes will be critical for their competitiveness going forward.