After two innings, Brandon Backe left with a strained ribcage muscle.
Those two innings, though, Backe gave up two hits and a walk, striking out one.
Depending on how serious the injury is, the Astros SP5 position just got a little clearer. Remember Wandy had a similar injury and hasn't pitched since Feb 27. Two weeks is a long time to be out if you're trying to earn a job...
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
