The Houston Astros are gearing up for the conclusion of the regular season, but they will have to do so without the services of their talented right-hander, Lance McCullers Jr. The 29-year-old pitcher has been sidelined due to complications stemming from an off-season surgery, and hopes for his return to the mound this season appear slim.
McCullers' Injury Woes
McCullers underwent surgery last summer, addressing a flexor tendon injury in his throwing arm and removing a bone spur. Despite the surgical intervention, his recovery has been anything but straightforward. McCullers faced a setback in early July, delaying any progress towards a potential return to the Astros' rotation. As of now, he has not advanced to the point of beginning a rehab assignment, making his return this season unlikely.
"The Houston Astros will likely be without right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. for the remainder of the regular season," commented Joe Espada, the team's bench coach. This dire update underscores the difficulties McCullers has faced in his recovery journey.
McCullers' Career Highlights
Debuting in the major leagues in 2015, McCullers has established himself as a significant part of the Astros' pitching staff. With 130 appearances in his career, he boasts a respectable 3.48 ERA (118 ERA+) and a 2.70 strikeout-to-walk ratio. However, durability has often been a challenge for McCullers. He has surpassed the 150-inning mark just once in his career, during the 2021 season, with his next highest inning total being 128 in 2018.
McCullers has also had the honor of pitching in two World Series victories, starting Game 7 of the 2017 Championship against the Los Angeles Dodgers. His achievements and potential led the Astros to extend his contract before the 2021 season, securing him with a five-year, $85 million deal that keeps him under contract through the 2026 campaign. He is still owed $34 million over the next two seasons.
Astros' Roster Adjustments
In light of McCullers' extended absence, the Astros have made several strategic adjustments to bolster their pitching staff. Notably, they executed a deadline deal to acquire left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, positioning him as a critical component for the playoff push. Additionally, veteran pitcher Justin Verlander is on the road to recovery. He participated in a simulated game on Sunday and is expected to complete a couple of minor-league rehab assignments. Verlander is projected to rejoin the Astros sometime in the middle of the month, potentially providing a much-needed boost to the rotation.
Looking Ahead
As the Astros prepare for the final stretch of the regular season, the absence of McCullers is a significant blow, but the team remains resilient. Manager Dusty Baker and the rest of the coaching staff will undoubtedly explore all options to maintain a competitive edge. The combination of Kikuchi's arrival and Verlander's impending return carries the promise of bridging the gap left by McCullers' prolonged recovery.
Throughout his career, McCullers has consistently demonstrated his talent and resilience. While this season might not see his return to the pitching mound, the Astros and their fans remain hopeful for his recovery and eventual comeback, ready to once again contribute to the team's success in future seasons.