LHP Framber Valdez, who has been out with a fractured left ring finger, met with Dr. Steven Shin in Los Angeles today. New images of the injured finger taken by Dr. Shin revealed significant healing. At this point, surgery has not been recommended. Valdez will return to the Astros complex in West Palm Beach in the next few days and continue to rehab his finger. Currently, there is no timetable yet for his return to pitching. Valdez injured his left ring finger after being struck by a comebacker while pitching vs. the Mets in Port St. Lucie on March 2.

RHP Forrest Whitley underwent ulnar collateral ligament reconstructive surgery (Tommy John) on his right elbow today. The surgery, which went as planned, was performed by Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, TX. Recovery time is generally 12-14 months. Whitley felt discomfort in his elbow while throwing live batting practice during a Spring Training workout earlier this month.