There are still a couple notable names the Astros may lose to another team in December’s Rule 5 draft, including a lefthanded pitcher who is wild but can throw 100 mph. But the Astros on Friday ensured a large group will stick around this time after losing Delino DeShields Jr. to the Rangers last year.
The Astros protected seven players from being taken in December’s Rule 5 draft before Friday’s 7 p.m. CT deadline by adding them to their 40-man roster, which is now full. Righthanded pitchers Jandel Gustave, Joe Musgrove, Juan Minaya and David Paulino were shielded, as were catcher Alfredo Gonzalez, outfielder Andrew Aplin and infielder Nolan Fontana.