Bench to be fortified with September callups

CHICAGO -- The Astros are expected to add a few players on Sunday when they can expand rosters, but there doesn't figure to be a large-scale callup of players until the playoffs are over. Triple-A Oklahoma City is closing in on a playoff berth, and Double-A Corpus Christi has already clinched a playoff berth.

"We've talked about it internally," Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow said when asked about September callups. "As time goes on and they get ready to start the playoffs in Triple-A, we'll be able to identify exactly who will come right away. Then some guys that may come after the playoffs after they hopefully win it all."

Because the Astros are using a six-man rotation, they're carrying 13 pitchers, which means they only have three position players on the bench. Manager Bo Porter said that's not really an issue for him, especially with Sept. 1 only a few days away.

"We just felt more comfortable having the extra pitcher right now," he said. "Most of our guys that are playing are pretty much going to play every day. There aren't too many guys that we are going to hit for. With Sept. 1 right around the corner, we just figure we'll go with that construction. When Sept. 1 rolls around, we'll get some more guys added to the roster."