The Latest Breaking News from Framber Valdez

ARLINGTON, Texas — Only a couple of weeks into Tony Beasley’s new job, we’re getting a clearer picture of what kind of manager he might make if he gets the gig full time.

HOUSTON — Framber Valdez leads the American League in innings pitched, and has delivered a quality start in a team-record 21 consecutive outings.

The Astros, Padres and Angels are prime examples of what star pitchers can produce on five days’ rest.

CHICAGO — The Chicago White Sox had an opportunity to inch closer to first place ahead of a big series against the division-leading Guardians in Cleveland.

SEATTLE — At 1:10 p.m. on what was a perfect afternoon for baseball at T-Mobile Park, Robbie Ray fired his first pitch of the game to Jose Altuve.

Bettors should take notice.

NEW YORK — The first round of boos was directed toward Jose Altuve, a face of the 2017 Astros, the most reviled team in recent baseball history, when he stepped to the plate to begin the game Tuesday night.

NEW YORK — Jose Altuve stepped into the batter’s box, ready to lead off the game. Chants and very loud boos spilled from the stands at Yankee Stadium. But the boos quickly turned to cheers after Jameson Taillon drilled the seven-time All-Star in the elbow guard with his third pitch.

“We’ve got a real test in Houston,” manager Tony La Russa said.

OAKLAND, Calif. — Paul Blackburn has been the Athletics’ most consistent starting pitcher this season, but even he couldn’t prevent a 5-1 loss to the Houston Astros Monday at the Coliseum.

HOUSTON – For an idea of just how desperate times are these days, Adolis Garcia, purveyor of one of baseball’s mightiest swings, led off the sixth inning Thursday with a bunt single, a career-first.