The Houston Astros activated outfielder Jacob Melton from the injured list before Monday’s game against the Washington Nationals. First baseman Jon Singleton was designated for assignment in a corresponding active roster move.

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.

Missing the two players widely considered the top candidates for American League Rookie of the Year from their starting lineup did not slow down the Athletics, who finished off a four-game sweep of the Astros on Sunday with a 7- 1 victory at Daikin Park.

Its Monday, July 28 and the Nationals (43-62) are in Houston to open a series against a suddenly scuffling Astros team (60-46). Brad Lord is slated to take the mound for Washington against Framber Valdez for Houston.

Houston Astros rookie sensation Cam Smith has been one of the most intriguing players in all of Major League Baseball this season, as the first-year slugger has

Starting third baseman Isaac Paredes (hamstring) is on the 10-day IL, but general manager Dana Brown said on Sunday that the injury is “a little bit more severe than we projected,” via The Athletic’s Chandler Rome. That could jeopardize Houston’s first-place status if it doesn’t acquire a replacement player by Thursday’s Trade Deadline.