The Houston Astros are gearing up to face the challenging remainder of the regular season without their key pitcher, Lance McCullers Jr. The right-hander, who has been a critical asset to the team, remains sidelined due to complications stemming from off-season surgery. The chances of McCullers returning to the mound this season appear slim.
Injury Setback and Surgery Details
McCullers' journey back to health has been a tumultuous one. He underwent surgery last summer to repair a flexor tendon in his throwing arm and to have a bone spur removed. Despite these efforts, his recovery has been slower than anticipated. The situation became more precarious when McCullers suffered a setback in early July, further delaying his progress. As of now, he has not advanced to the stage of beginning a rehab assignment.
Astros bench coach Joe Espada confirmed the dour prognosis, stating, "The Houston Astros will likely be without right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. for the remainder of the regular season."
Career Highlights and Contract
McCullers, who made his major league debut in 2015, has been a stalwart for the Astros over his career. He has made 130 appearances, posting a 3.48 ERA (118 ERA+), and boasts a 2.70 strikeout-to-walk ratio. However, durability has often been an issue for the right-hander. He has surpassed the 150-inning mark only once, during the 2021 season. His next highest total came in 2018, with 128 innings pitched.
Despite these challenges, McCullers has been instrumental in some of the Astros' most memorable moments. He started Game 7 of the 2017 World Series, helping secure a victory against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Adding to his accolades, McCullers has also pitched in two World Series victories, solidifying his place in the franchise's history.
Recognizing his value and potential, the Astros extended McCullers' contract before the 2021 season. The five-year, $85 million deal ensures he will remain under contract through the 2026 campaign. He is still owed $34 million over the next two seasons.
Astros' Adjustments and Upcoming Returns
In light of McCullers' likely absence, the Astros have made strategic adjustments. They executed a deadline deal to acquire left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, hoping to bolster their pitching staff as they push for postseason success.
There's also some positive news regarding another vital pitcher, Justin Verlander. The veteran ace has been on the mend and recently participated in a simulated game on Sunday. Verlander is expected to carry out a couple of minor-league rehab assignments before rejoining the Astros sometime in the middle of the month. His return could provide the much-needed boost to the rotation as the team eyes a deep playoff run.
While the loss of McCullers is a significant blow, the Astros are no strangers to adversity. The team remains focused on the task at hand, leveraging their depth and experience to navigate the challenges of the regular season. With Espada's guidance and strategic moves in play, the Astros are poised to remain competitive.
The remaining games will test the resilience and adaptability of the Houston Astros, but their track record and tactical acumen suggest they are up to the challenge. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how the team manages without one of their star pitchers and how effectively they can integrate the new roster additions.