The Houston Astros are facing the final stretch of the regular season without right-hander Lance McCullers Jr., a blow to their pitching rotation. McCullers, who has been integral to the team's success, has been sidelined due to complications from off-season surgery and is unlikely to return this season, according to Astros bench coach Joe Espada. "The Houston Astros will likely be without right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. for the remainder of the regular season," Espada stated.
Complications and Setbacks
McCullers underwent surgery last summer, which included the repair of a flexor tendon in his throwing arm and the removal of a bone spur. Despite the initial optimism, McCullers has faced several challenges in his recovery. He has not advanced to the point of beginning a rehab assignment and suffered a significant setback in early July. This has stalled any hopes for a late-season comeback.
Career Highlights and Stats
Since making his major league debut in 2015, McCullers has made 130 appearances and has been a reliable presence on the mound for the Astros. He boasts a 3.48 ERA (118 ERA+) and a 2.70 strikeout-to-walk ratio. However, McCullers has struggled with consistency due to his injury history. He has surpassed the 150-inning mark only once in his career, achieving this during the 2021 season. His next highest inning total was 128, reached in 2018.
McCullers has been a part of two World Series victories with the Astros and famously started Game 7 of the 2017 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, solidifying his place in Astros lore. His contributions to the team over the years have not gone unnoticed, leading to a significant contract extension prior to the 2021 season. The Astros extended McCullers' contract with a five-year, $85 million deal, which keeps him under contract through the 2026 campaign. He is owed $34 million over the next two seasons.
Astros' Pitching Roster Adjustments
In response to McCullers' prolonged absence, the Astros have had to make adjustments to their pitching roster. One notable move was the acquisition of left-hander Yusei Kikuchi at the trade deadline, bolstering their rotation depth. Additionally, veteran ace Justin Verlander has been on the mend and participated in a simulated game on Sunday. Verlander is projected to carry out a couple of minor-league rehab assignments and is expected to rejoin the Astros sometime in the middle of the month.
The combination of these adjustments and the existing talent on the roster suggests that the Astros are preparing to navigate the playoffs without one of their stalwart pitchers. While McCullers' absence is a significant loss, the team's proactive moves in the trade market and Verlander's impending return may help mitigate the impact on their chances.
As the Astros aim to secure their position in the postseason, the resilience and adaptability of their pitching staff will be tested. Lance McCullers Jr.'s journey back to health will continue to be a story to watch in the upcoming seasons, with hopes that he can overcome these setbacks and return to make future contributions to the team.