Houston ace Framber Valdez expresses frustration over defensive positioning during the Astros' loss to the Washington Nationals.

The Nationals had their first winning week in about two months. Now they are looking to win their third straight series in Houston. It is a different looking Astros team to the one we are used to due to injury but they are still a force in the AL West.

Jon Singleton, a 33-year-old former top MLB prospect, could soon be looking for a new home after being designated for assignment.

A fifth-inning RBI double from Mauricio Dubón comprised their only offense Monday. The Nationals own the highest bullpen ERA in the sport and used five pitchers in the opener of this three-game series. They scattered two singles and two doubles.

Part of why Houston struggled against the Athletics is health, as shortstop Jeremy Peña (rib) and third baseman Isaac Paredes (hamstring) are both on the 10-day IL. Peña leads the team with a .322 batting average, which also ranks third in baseball. Meanwhile, Paredes tops the squad with 19 homers.

Houston Astros star Jeremy Pena is closing in on a return to the major league roster, as he'll begin a rehab assignment on Tuesday with Triple-A Sugar Land. He's been out with a fracture in his ribs.

Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña is ready to begin a rehab assignment as he works his way back from a rib injury sustained on a hit by pitch.