Duke to get a look as a starter

Before Astros pitchers and catchers hit the field early Tuesday for the second day of workouts, manager Brad Mills said left-handed pitcher Zach Duke, a non-roster invite to camp, would be looked at as both a starter and a reliever. Duke will make a couple of Grapefruit League starts, Mills said.

“We’re going to see what he’s able to bring to the table,” Mills said. “We’re going to give him a chance to start a couple of games, but he’s also pitched out of the pen, and when you have a lefty like that with his experience is an opportunity he might be able to earn a spot in the bullpen as well.”

Duke is 48-74 with a 4.56 ERA in his career, mostly with the Pirates. He’s pitched in 181 games, including 168 starts.

Much more to come later, but enjoy a couple of morning photos:

Astros coaches Dave Clark, Milt Thompson and Bobby Meacham await the workout.

Kyle Weiland plays catch with Jordan Lyles.

Zach Duke warms up with a game of toss.