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MINNEAPOLIS — Zach Dezenzo was rehabbing an injury at the Houston Astros’ minor-league facility in Florida last season when he first beheld a bat that he still thinks “looks weird.” Its barrel bulged and tapered into a skinner end. Its shape resembled that of a bowling pin.

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Luis Garcia, the Houston Astros' starting pitcher, has faced another setback in his rehabilitation process. According to multiple reports, the right-hander has been shut down for the next four weeks after an MRI revealed elbow inflammation.

This week, the Houston Astros had their only Sunday and Friday off of the season. Here are the reasons behind the quirky schedule.

Houston shut down the Twins on Thursday in the Target Field opener, spoiling positive pregame buzz and a lively start.

The Houston Astros know that pitcher Framber Valdez is slated to hit the free-agent market next offseason, and all along, they understood that they may not be able to re-sign him. Well, now, the Astros are probably resigned to the fact that Valdez will be leaving them next winter.

The Astros will try to win their fifth consecutive division title after trading their best player and losing an icon via free agency.