The Houston Astros are facing the rest of their regular season without one of their key pitchers, Lance McCullers Jr. The right-hander has been sidelined due to complications arising from off-season surgery and is unlikely to return this season.
McCullers' Injury Woes
Following surgery last summer, McCullers has not progressed to the point of beginning a rehab assignment. The surgery involved the repair of a flexor tendon in his throwing arm and the removal of a bone spur. Despite initial hopes for his return, McCullers suffered a setback in early July that has delayed his recovery further. As a result, the pitcher, who debuted in the major leagues in 2015, will continue to be absent from the Astros' lineup.
“The Houston Astros will likely be without right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. for the remainder of the regular season," noted the team's bench coach, Joe Espada.
A Look at McCullers' Career
Since his debut, McCullers has made 130 appearances and has maintained a 3.48 ERA, translating to an ERA+ of 118. Known for his knack for striking batters out, he has a 2.70 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Despite his effectiveness on the mound, McCullers has been plagued by injuries. He has surpassed the 150-inning mark only once, during the 2021 season, with his next highest inning total being 128 in the 2018 season.
McCullers has enjoyed notable success with the Astros, including two World Series victories. One highlight was starting Game 7 of the 2017 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Prior to the 2021 season, the Astros underscored their confidence in McCullers by extending his contract with a five-year, $85 million deal, keeping him under contract through the 2026 campaign. He is still owed $34 million over the next two seasons.
Astros' Adjustments and Current Pitching Roster
In light of McCullers' extended absence, the Astros executed a deadline deal to acquire left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, aiming to bolster their pitching roster for the remaining games. This strategic move indicates the team's determination to stay competitive despite their recent setbacks.
Another critical pitcher for the Astros, Justin Verlander, is also making his way back from an injury. Verlander participated in a simulated game on Sunday and is projected to carry out a couple of minor-league rehab assignments before rejoining the Astros sometime in the middle of the month.
With these adjustments, the team is banking on strengthening its pitching depth and maintaining its competitive edge as they navigate the concluding stages of the regular season.
McCullers' journey has been marked by both moments of triumph and bouts of adversity. His career statistics reflect a pitcher of high caliber who, when healthy, can make significant contributions to his team. As the Astros move forward without McCullers for the remainder of this season, the hope remains that he will make a full recovery and return to his role as a cornerstone of their pitching staff in the future.