Astros Place Relief Pitcher Joe Smith On Restricted List

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(SportsRadio 610) -- The Astros placed relief pitcher Joe Smith on the restricted list as they await his decision on whether to join the team in 2020. 

Smith, who is in his third season with the Astros, has not reported to summer camp because of a family matter, manager Dusty Baker said.

It remains unclear whether he will play in the shortened 60-game season. 

Smith's mother is battling Huntington's disease, which has no cure, and the pitcher has been public about her condition. 

Meanwhile, there have been logistical issues at Astros camp regarding testing and potential exposure to the virus. 
They shut down a workout because of delayed test results last week, then Alex Bregman was held from a practice because his individual test result was late.
The same happened with George Springer and two other Astros players on Tuesday.
A staff member's possible exposure to the virus kept the entire pitching staff from camp Sunday. 

Smith contributed to the Astros' 2019 postseason run with a 3.12 ERA in 10 appearances, eight of which were scoreless. 

He recovered from surgery on his left Achilles last season and struck out 22 over 25 innings over 28 appearances, posting a 1.80 ERA. 

The Astros re-signed him in December to a two-year deal for $8 million.

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