One of the Houston Astros pitchers could lose his starting role heading into 2024 despite having a solid rookie season.
When the Houston Astros traded for Justin Verlander at the deadline this year, it was a move that not only helped them push for another World Series title in 2023, but was to strengthen their rotation in 2024.
Their former ace signed a two-year contract with the New York Mets in free agency last offseason before being moved back to the Astros.
With Verlander back in the mix for next season and injured starters Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr. expected to return in 2024, that creates some questions about the future of J.P. France.
The 28-year-old was thrust into a starting role as a rookie because of those injuries.
He performed well at the beginning, posting an ERA of 3.26 across 11 starts.
But France clearly reached his limit towards the latter part of the season, allowing 27 earned runs over his final 34 1/3 innings pitched.
According to Chandler Rome of The Athletic, neither McCullers Jr. or Garcia will be ready for the start of the 2024 season.
This could allow France to be in the starting rotation.
But, Rome also writes, "France has clearly advanced beyond the minor leagues, but finding a spot for him in a full-strength 2024 rotation may be difficult."
If he gets moved to the bullpen, that could help out the potential overhaul that Houston's front office will likely do with that unit this offseason.
Worst case scenario, the Astros could move him back down to the minor leagues since he has two remaining option years.
This would keep him under team control while he continues to progress as a starter.
France will also have an opportunity to earn his place in the starting rotation before the others come back from injury.
It will all depend on how well he performs when he has his opportunities.