Injuries continue to plague the Houston Astros’ rotation as they announce that Cristian Javier will be placed on the injured list due to a neck problem. This news comes as a blow to the team, as Javier had emerged as one of their most reliable starters during a challenging April.
Javier’s injury adds to an already extensive list of injured pitchers for the Astros. He becomes the sixth starter to spend time on the IL this season, joining Lance McCullers Jr., Luis Garcia, José Urquidy, and Framber Valdez. The team is hopeful that Valdez will be able to return to the rotation during their current eight-game road trip, but no definite plans have been made beyond that.
Manager Joe Espada revealed that top pitching prospect Spencer Arrighetti will be recalled to take Javier’s spot on the active roster. Arrighetti had previously made two starts in the major leagues earlier this month, but struggled, allowing nine earned runs in just seven innings. This will be another opportunity for him to prove himself at the highest level.
The Astros’ rotation has been hit hard by injuries, and their depth is being severely tested. With four projected members of their rotation currently sidelined, including ace Justin Verlander who recently returned from the IL, they will need to rely on their remaining healthy pitchers and potentially explore external options to fill the void.
These injuries come at a crucial time for the Astros as they look to maintain their competitiveness in a highly competitive American League West division. The team will need their pitchers to step up and fill the gaps left by the injured starters if they hope to continue their success throughout the season.
In conclusion, the Houston Astros are facing major challenges in their rotation with Cristian Javier becoming the latest pitcher to be placed on the injured list. The team’s depth is being tested, and they will need their remaining healthy pitchers to step up and perform at a high level. Additionally, the Astros may need to explore external options to bolster their rotation as they navigate through this difficult period.