Quote:
Chad Qualls struggled in his second outing of the spring, giving up three runs in an inning against the Nationals.
Qualls made his first appearance Monday after missing time with a sore right shoulder. He gave up three hits and walked two today.
Jason Lane went 3-for-4 with a two-run homer Thursday versus the Nationals.
Hunter Pence, who hit his second homer today, will continue to get most of the attention in Houston, but Lane also appears to be on his way to a big spring. He's 8-for-20 with three homers and a 3/3 K/BB ratio. Meanwhile, Richard Hidalgo is off to a 1-for-19 start.
Brandon Backe is expected to throw from a mound Friday for the first time since undergoing Tommy John surgery.
Backe, who had surgery in September, is hoping for a midseason return. Because setbacks are likely and Backe may be rusty initially, his potential for fantasy value is minimal this season.
Carlos Lee was limited to designated hitter duties Wednesday because of a sore right arm.
The Astros had planned to use Craig Biggio at DH early in camp. Manager Phil Garner said Wednesday that Lee's injury isn't a big concern.
Per Rotoworld