Astros plan to stick with McHugh in rotation

DETROIT -- With veteran right-hander Scott Feldman set to come off the disabled list on Friday and start against the Orioles, it's still unclear who will be leaving the Astros' starting rotation to make room for him.

What is known is that right-hander Collin McHugh, who made three starts in place of Feldman, will remain in the rotation and make his fourth start on Saturday against the Orioles in Baltimore. Jarred Cosart will start Sunday's series finale at Camden Yards.

Astros manager Bo Porter said the club will make a corresponding roster move prior to Friday's game to open up a roster spot for Feldman, who will be making his first start since April 17. It appears either Dallas Keuchel, Brad Peacock or Brett Oberholtzer will be removed from the rotation.

McHugh was dazzling in his first two starts in place of Feldman. He struck out 12 batters in 6 2/3 innings on April 22 at Seattle and held the A's to one run and two hits over 8 2/3 innings on April 27. McHugh struggled a bit in his most recent outing, on Sunday against Seattle, allowing five earned runs and eight hits in four innings.

"He threw the ball well," Porter said of McHugh. "Even in the last start, against Seattle, I felt like he battled. He still had his secondary stuff. It wasn't as sharp as it was the first two times out, but you look at the body of work in the three starts, and I feel he deserves an opportunity."