Pederson is absent from Friday's lineup against Houston.
The Astros are sending southpaw Framber Valdez to the mound, so the lefty-hitting Pederson will begin Friday's contest in the dugout. Since the All-Star break, Pederson has slashed .298/.459/.606 with 22 runs scored, eight home runs and 21 RBI across 122 plate appearances in his strong-side platoon role. Ketel Marte will serve as the designated hitter Friday while Kevin Newman gets the start at second base.