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Tiger Woods isn't playing the Houston Open, but how about the Masters?

We at least know one thing about Tiger Woods' schedule: It won't include the Shell Houston Open.

The Friday deadline for players to commit to next week's last tournament before the Masters came and went without Woods joining the field. A rumor, albeit not a strong one, had been started suggesting Woods, seeking some kind of tournament experience before heading down Magnolia Lane, might pick the Houston Open. No dice. After all, Woods has never played in the Houston Open as a pro.

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Earlier in the week, Woods' friend Notah Begay III told 120 Sports that Woods is "50-50" to play the Masters, but that was an improvement from a 1-in-10 shot just three weeks ago. Most seem to read the tea leaves to suggest Woods won't play for a second consecutive years.

However, Woods doesn't have a specific deadline to commit to the Masters. Since a player can only get in the tournament by invitation, there are no alternates. That means Woods has until his issued tee time on Thursday to show up and register. Out of professional courtesy, Woods is expected to reveal his plans late next week.

If Woods chooses not to play at Augusta National, then, golf cannot go through this will-he-won't-he exercise every week. Rule the rest of April out if Woods is a no-show for the Masters. The next time we could expect to see Woods, who will drop out of the top 100 in the Official World Golf Ranking, is The Players Championship in early May.


Ryan Ballengee is a Yahoo Sports contributor. Find him on Facebook and Twitter.