Key Takeaways:
– Houston Astros pitcher Cristian Javier is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, following his recent arm injury.
– Javier’s recovery period could potentially overlap into the 2025 season.
– Despite the team’s current challenges, general manager Dana Brown anticipates improving the starting pitching line-up via trade.
Houston Astros pitcher Cristian Javier is looking at an extended period of recovery following his right forearm injury. According to sport journalist Chandler Rome from The Athletic, Javier will need to undergo a Tommy John surgery, which typically commands a 12-14-month recovery period. This predicament certainly puts an end to Javier’s 2024 season and part of his 2025 season.
The Houston Astros’ Achilles Heel
The Houston Astros already had a atrophied starting rotation before Javier’s injury. He had been on the injured list since May 27, following discomfort in his right forearm, which ultimately led to this latest development. Javier’s last pitch was on May 21 against the Los Angeles Angels, during which he gave up four runs on eight hits over four innings.
Moreover, the 27-year-old has exhibited a slipping performance since his return from a month-long absence due to neck discomfort. Data from Fangraphs points to a drop in the velocity of his pitches. His fastball averaged at a then-season-low 91.1 mph, dropping further to 90.5 mph against LA. His curveball and slider speeds were also down during his most recent play.
Christian Javier’s Injury Toll
Despite metrics indicating Javier’s deteriorating health, both he and manager Jose Espada maintained his fitness. However, Javier’s subsequent inability to make his scheduled bullpen session underlined the severity of his health issue, and the Astros had no choice but to bench him.
Javier struggled since returning from his first stint on the Injured List this season. During the three starts he had made since then, he only completed 11.1 total innings. During this time, he let 11 runs, walked eight and conceded three home runs. This was a stark contrast to the impressive 1.54 ERA he posted in his first four starts.
Astros’ Recovery Playbook
Despite being seven games below .500 as of June 4, Astros’ general manager Dana Brown assures the fans that the team plans to acquire new talent by the trade deadline. Aiming for an eighth consecutive trip to the American League Championship Series, Brown expressed confidence in the team saying, “I don’t see any scenario where we’re sellers.”
While the team needs strengthening in various aspects, Brown specifically mentioned wanting to improve the starting pitching roster through trades.
Houston’s starting rotation has faced a slew of hurdles. In addition to Javier’s injury, Jose Urquidy is expected to require a Tommy John surgery after sustaining an injury during Spring Training. Lance McCullers Jr. and Luis Garcia are on their way to recovery but have not pitched in 2024. Back end rotation players, Hunter Brown and Spencer Arrighetti, are also struggling.
However, upgrading the pitching roster may be a daunting task for the Astros considering their 27th rank out of 30 MLB teams, according to MLB.com’s review of their farm system.
The upcoming recovery period for Cristian Javier and his projected absence from the team pose a significant challenge for the Houston Astros. As they navigate through these obstacles, they are banking on strategic trades to maintain their standing in the championship series. The team and fans alike are undoubtedly hoping for a swift recovery for Javier and the revival of Astros’ starting rotation.