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Today's starting lineup
We're one day away from the Astros' season opener and the clock is ticking on some key roster decisions. Houston took care of one Tuesday, opting for the repatriated Christian Vázquez as its backup catcher. Meantime, Jeremy Peña returned to game action for the exhibition finale, but his status for opening day remains unclear.
As the Astros return to the diamond this week, be sure to subscribe to our Inside Pitch newsletter to get insights and analysis that go beyond the box score all season long from beat writer Matt Kawahara.
Please scroll down for the rest of this morning's headlines.
 | Greg Rajan, Weekend Sports Editor |
Astros / MLB
Photo by: Jason Fochtman, Houston Chronicle
Vázquez gets nod
In one of their biggest remaining roster decisions, the Astros went with veteran Christian Vázquez who was part of the 2022 World Series title team and recently returned, as their backup catcher.
- Jeremy Peña back in action: Houston's shortstop played in a game for the first time in three weeks, but his status for the season opener remains uncertain. Read More
- McCullers embraces opportunity: For the first time in five years, Lance McCullers Jr. is healthy to start a season and left pleased following his final tuneup start. Read More
- Farm a priority for success: The Astros' minor-league sytstem is rated near the bottom but Houston officials think it's better. Four picks in the top 93 of the 2026 draft should help. Read More
UH Basketball / South Regional
Photo by: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle
Chairman of the boards
UH freshman Chris Cenac Jr. has 13 games this season with more than 10 rebounds, giving him a special place among the Cougars.
- Meet the team: UH is two wins away from a second consecutive Final Four appearance. Meet the players who've helped the Cougars reach the South Regional at Toyota Center. Read More
- Sweet 16 history: Before Thursday's game against Illinois, taking a look back at UH's history in the Sweet 16 through the years. Read More
Commentary
Photo by: Jenny Kane, AP
Bohl's 9 things
Sean Miller's run to the Sweet 16 in his first year at Texas has been remarkable plus Vic Schaefer's goal for perfection and more on UT and the NCAA Tournament.
Rockets / NBA
Photo by: Jason Fochtman, Staff Photographer
Not looking good
While veteran point guard Fred VanVleet hasn't been officially ruled out, coach Ime Udoka strongly hinted a return is unlikely.
College Football
Photo by: Maria Lysaker, Getty Images
Prospect spotlight
Texas A&M holds its annual Pro Day today. Here are five Aggies to keep an eye on as the NFL draft nears.
Houston Open / Golf
Photo by: Ashley Landis, Associated Press
Scottie Scheffler out
The world No. 1 and his wife Meredith are expecting the birth of their second child, which led to Scheffler withdrawing from the Houston Open.
- Players to watch: Defending champion Min Woo Lee leads the field for the Texas Children's Houston Open beginning Thursday at Memorial Park. Read More
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