Astros manager Bo Porter said Monday the competition for the closer's role is wide open between Josh Fields, Matt Albers, Chad Qualls and Jesse Crain, according to the Houston Chronicle. However, Porter acknowledged Qualls experience as a closer carries some value.
Crain, however, might have a tough time competing for the job this spring since Porter said Monday there is still no timetable for when Crain will throw off a mound. The veteran reliever is still recovering from right biceps surgery in October.