Astros Activate Reliever Joe Smith for First Time Since 2018 ALCS
It looks like the Astros' pitching staff will get a much-needed boost after activating reliever Joe Smith from the 60-day injured list and adding him to the 25-man roster.
Smith has not appeared in MLB play since October of last season due to a ruptured achilles tendon.
Joe Smith, who has not appeared in @MLB since last year's ALCS due to a ruptured Achilles tendon, has been activated by @Astros and added to 25-man roster. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 12, 2019
Smith's last appearance for the Astros was a Game 3 loss against the Red Sox in the American League Championship Series, in which he gave up a home run to Steve Pearce and lasted one-third of an inning.
Steve Pearce just took Joe Smith off the Chick-Fil-A pole in left. Red Sox lead, 3-2.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) October 16, 2018
Since that time, Smith has undergone surgery to repair his achilles and has been working his way back to game action.
Within that period, Smith estimated that he put on some weight due to inactivity, but quickly shed at least 20 pounds in the months following, as he wanted to come back in shape and ready to go.
AJ with updates on Brad Peacock, who could start Monday in Anaheim, and Joe Smith. pic.twitter.com/Dw0RyNSUjM
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) July 11, 2019
Smith was able to throw 27 pitches and work out of a jam as his stamina was tested for game action in his last rehab assignment.