League: MLB Sport: Baseball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Astros release pitcher J.P. France ahead of Rangers series

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 31, 2026, 2:49 AM

Last updated Jul 31, 2026

Astros release pitcher J.P. France ahead of Rangers series

Summary

The Houston Astros announced the release of pitcher J.P. France before their three-game series against the Texas Rangers. Houston is currently 0.5 games behind the Rangers in the AL West, making the matchup significant for playoff positioning. France spent much of the 2026 season with the Astros’ Triple-A affiliate, appearing in 29 games with a 3.72 ERA but struggling with control, as indicated by a high walk rate. The 31-year-old pitched 6.2 innings for the Astros this season, allowing six earned runs. France's departure follows a disappointing performance trajectory since his rookie year in 2023.

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By the Numbers

•France appeared in four MLB seasons with the Astros.
•He made 23 starts in 2023 but limited appearances since.
•His overall MLB ERA stands at 4.49 over 172+ innings.
•The Astros are 0.5 games behind the Rangers in the AL West.

Latest Updates

2:49 AMYahoo Sports — Houston Astros Cut Ties with 4-Year MLB Player Before Rangers Series

What they're saying

"
After sweeping the Los Angeles Angels earlier this week, the Houston Astros are set to open up a huge 3-game weekend series with the Texas Rangers, which has major first-place implications. Houston sits just 0.5 games back of the Rangers for first place in the AL West, and it’s a big-time showdown in the American […] The post Houston Astros Cut Ties with 4-Year MLB Player Before Rangers Series appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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