Astros, expecting Framber Valdez back, option JP France to Triple-A

(Photo credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports)
The struggling Houston Astros optioned right-handed starter JP France to Triple-A Sugar Land Friday, clearing the way for the team to activate left-hander Framber Valdez from the 15-day injured list.

Astros manager Joe Espada told reporters Thursday night that Valdez, who has been sidelined by soreness in his left elbow, likely would start Sunday in Mexico City against the Col