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**Astros Activate McCullers, Option Hernandez; Pena Sidelined with Rib Soreness**

HOUSTON – The Houston Astros made roster moves Saturday, activating right-handed pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. from the injured list to start their game against the Chicago Cubs. To make room, the team optioned right-hander Nick Hernandez to Triple-A Sugar Land.

McCullers, who has been sidelined since June 13 with a sprained right foot, returns to the mound after last pitching on June 10 against the Chicago White Sox. The 2017 World Series champion is 1-2 with a 4.91 ERA in seven starts this season. Before his injury, McCullers had strung together two quality starts, striking out 19 batters in 12 innings.

However, the Astros lineup will be without shortstop Jeremy Pena, who left Friday night’s game against the Cubs with rib soreness. Manager Joe Espada stated that Pena is receiving treatment and feeling better, but the team is being cautious.

“He is getting treatment right now. He’s gonna move around, probably hit off the tee,” Espada said. “I’m going to do everything I can to keep him away from today’s game, just to give him a full off day, but he’s actually feeling pretty good.”

Pena, who had played in every Astros game this season prior to Saturday, is having a career year, batting .322 with 11 home runs and 40 RBIs while serving as the leadoff hitter. His .867 OPS is a significant improvement over last season.

Hernandez, 30, appeared in two relief appearances this season with a 9.00 ERA.

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