As the Houston Astros make their push toward postseason contention, they'll be doing so without the services of right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. The pitcher, who has been sidelined this season due to complications from off-season surgery, is unlikely to return for the remainder of the year. This is a significant blow for the Astros, who have relied on McCullers' talent and experience in previous campaigns.
McCullers underwent surgery last summer to repair a flexor tendon in his throwing arm and to remove a bone spur. Unfortunately, his recovery has not progressed as hoped. The pitcher suffered a setback in early July, which has prevented him from even beginning a rehab assignment.
Bench coach Joe Espada voiced the team's sentiment, stating, "The Houston Astros will likely be without right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. for the remainder of the regular season." The Astros are now forced to navigate the challenges of the season without one of their most seasoned pitchers.
A Career Filled with Highlights
McCullers debuted in the major leagues in 2015 and has since made 130 appearances. With a career ERA of 3.48 (118 ERA+) and a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 2.70, he has established himself as a reliable presence on the mound. His contributions have been instrumental in the Astros' success, playing pivotal roles in two World Series victories, including starting Game 7 of the 2017 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Despite his promising career, McCullers has struggled to maintain extended bouts of health. He surpassed the 150-inning mark only once, in the 2021 season, and his next highest inning total was 128 in 2018. These intermittent battles with injuries have been a recurring theme, casting a shadow over what has otherwise been a stellar tenure.
A Lucrative Commitment
Prior to the 2021 season, the Astros showed their commitment to McCullers by extending his contract with a five-year, $85 million deal. This contract keeps him under team control through the 2026 campaign, with $34 million owed over the next two seasons. The front office's faith in McCullers underscores his value to the organization, despite the injury woes that have plagued him.
Astros' Pitching Depth Faces Test
With McCullers sidelined, the Astros have had to make strategic moves to reinforce their pitching staff. In a deadline deal, they acquired left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, aiming to bolster their rotation. Additionally, veteran pitcher Justin Verlander, who has also been making his way back from injury, participated in a simulated game on Sunday. Verlander is slated to carry out a couple of minor-league rehab assignments and is expected to rejoin the Astros sometime in the middle of the month, offering a much-needed boost.
Navigating the remainder of the season without McCullers will undoubtedly be a challenge, but the Astros have shown resilience and adaptability in the past. As they aim for another deep postseason run, the team will lean on their depth and experience, hoping that the return of Verlander and the acquisition of Kikuchi will adequately fill the gap left by McCullers' absence.
The Astros' journey this season is a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports, where injuries and comebacks are part of the narrative. As they press forward, the story of McCullers' career with its peaks and valleys continues to be a significant chapter in the Astros' ongoing saga.