HOUSTON — Lance McCullers Jr., the talented right-handed pitcher, is poised to make his return for the Houston Astros in a game against the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. This comes as the Astros activate him from the 15-day injured list. McCullers had been sidelined since June 13.
Following an extended recovery period from right flexor tendon surgery that kept him out for two full seasons, McCullers returned earlier this season. He carries a record of 1-2 with a 4.91 ERA across seven starts. However, his recent performances have shown promise, as he posted a 3.20 ERA in his last five outings, accumulating 35 strikeouts over 25 1/3 innings.
McCullers’ reentry into the lineup is a significant boost for Houston’s pitching rotation, which has been grappling with significant injuries. Both Hayden Wesneski and Ronel Blanco have been lost for the rest of the season due to surgeries. Additionally, the team has been without Spencer Arrighetti since April, following a batting practice mishap that resulted in a broken right thumb.
The Astros are also managing without the services of pitchers Luis Garcia and Cristian Javier, both of whom are in the recovery phase following Tommy John surgery. Despite these setbacks, the Astros have managed to maintain an impressive performance, holding a 6 1/2-game advantage in the American League West standings. They boast a team ERA of 3.41, positioning them among the top four in the major leagues.
To accommodate McCullers on the active roster, the Astros have optioned right-hander Nick Hernandez.