Ryan Pressly Injury Update: Joe Espada optimistic of All-Star pitcher's condition following lower-back injury

The Houston Astros manager Joe Espada is optimistic about Ryan Pressly's current condition after he was placed on the injured list. The team has faced a lot of injuries this season, with the veteran pitcher being the latest addition to that list.

According to reports, Pressly was put on a 15-day IL due to a lower back strain on Saturday. He had been suffering from it since the team's last road trip to Boston on Aug. 9, but he still decided to pitch through it back then.

During an Aug. 17 interview, Espada opened up about the 35-year-old All-Star pitcher's condition. The manager sounded quite optimistic, mentioning that he doesn't feel this injury to be a "serious" one. However, Espada also mentioned that the player's return is still undecided.

"Pressly has a lower back strain. I don't think it's serious. He tried to pitch through it. It started in Boston (Friday, Aug. 9). I don't think it's something serious. We decided to give him some time to heal before getting him back out there.”

The Astros are in a tense situation and they would surely need all the help they can to push them toward the postseason, and they would surely love to get Pressley on the field soon. The two-time All-Star pitcher has played 49 games this season; however, he hasn't made a start yet. He has an ERA of 3.86, a WHIP of 1.41 and 54 strikeouts.

Astros' possible bullpen approach after Ryan Pressly's injury setback

Pressly being sidelined will be a point to worry about for the Astros dressing room. Now they will need to take a moment and plan accordingly as they move toward the end of the regular season and eye for playoffs.

Justin Verlander is scheduled to return soon, and that is something that will boost the clubhouse's morale. However, during Pressly's absence, relief arms like Bryan Abreu, Josh Hader and Kaleb Ort will have to lead the team in that position.

The 'Stros have also recalled Seth Martinez to the 26-man roster to replace Pressly for the time being from Triple-A Sugar Land. This season, Martinez has 41 appearances, pitching for 49.1 IP with a 2.92 ERA and 1.22 WHIP.

Pressly's experience will be difficult to replace, even if temporarily. However, the manager Espada has mentioned that this IL stint is for resting Pressly so that he could focus on performing at the top level during the playoffs.