ASTROS ALERT: Jeremy Peña's RACE to Open Day Plus The Astros BACKUP Catcher Decision (Recorded March 26, post production was held up)

The Houston Astros are heading into Opening Day with more questions than usual, and the answers are coming fast. Star shortstop Jeremy Peña is racing to prove his fractured fingertip is behind him after a strong Tuesday night exhibition, with manager Joe Espada ready to make the call on whether the 2022 World Series MVP suits up for Thursday's opener against the Angels or starts the season on the injured list. Meanwhile, the Astros have locked in a five-man rotation featuring Lance McCullers Jr. as the fifth starter while sending Spencer Arrighetti to Triple-A to keep him stretched out for an April return, and veteran Christian Vázquez has won the backup catcher competition over César Salazar in a move that prioritizes experience and defense over offense. With roster spots on the line, a crowded infield, and four left-handed starters on the schedule in the first seven games, Joe Espada has plenty of decisions to navigate — and Locked On Astros breaks it all down. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.