Astros set for intrasquad

Nothing says Grapefruit League action is around the corner like a good, old-fashioned intrasquad game, which is what the Astros will do at 11 a.m. CT on Thursday at Osceola County Stadium. The teams, which are led by Morgan Ensberg and Adam Everett, were drafted Wednesday morning:

Team Everett: Jose Altuve, Tyler Greene, Jason Castro, Fernando Martinez, Rick Ankiel, Brett Wallace, George Springer, Nate Freiman, Marwin Gonzalez.

Team Ensberg: Justin Maxwell, Matt Dominguez, Carlos Pena, Chris Carter, Jonathan Villar, J.D. Martinez, Delino DeShields, Carlos Corporan, Brandon Barnes.

There will be no pitchers throwing because the Astros are going to use a pitching machine that throws curveballs.

Today’s Astros notebook has Jarred Cosart and Josh Zeid discussing how pumped up they are to face their former team on Saturday when the Astros play the Phillies, as well as plenty of other information. And don’t forget the story and video of Roger Clemens throwing live BP to hitters on Wednesday. If you think it’s silly, read what the hitters had to say.

Now the photos:

Astros catcher pause between drills.

Catcher Jason Castro prepares to throw.

Nate Freiman holds a runner while Jose Valdez steps off the rubber.

Group of players listen to instruction.

Chris Carter gives a high five.

Philip Humber winds it up.

Roger Clemens helps Philip Humber with mechanics.

Dallas Keuchel and Carlos Corporan rest after working.

Doug Brocail mentors Rhiner Cruz.