The Houston Astros face a challenging phase as they navigate the remainder of the regular season without their star pitcher, Lance McCullers Jr. The right-hander has been sidelined due to complications from an off-season surgery, and the team's bench coach Joe Espada has confirmed that McCullers is unlikely to return this season.
Setbacks and Surgical Complications
McCullers, who joined the major leagues in 2015, has been a crucial player for the Astros. The surgery he underwent last summer involved the repair of a flexor tendon in his throwing arm and the removal of a bone spur. However, his recovery has not progressed as planned. He has not yet advanced to the point of beginning a rehab assignment and suffered a significant setback in early July.
This setback has dashed hopes of a late-season return. Given the timeframe and the complexities involved, it seems improbable that McCullers will be back on the mound this year.
A Look Back at McCullers' Career
McCullers' absence is a significant blow for the Astros. Over his career, he has made 130 appearances and boasts a respectable 3.48 ERA (118 ERA+). Known for his robust performance, he also maintains a 2.70 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Despite these impressive stats, McCullers has faced persistent challenges with durability. He has surpassed the 150-inning mark only once, during the 2021 season, with his next highest total being 128 innings in 2018.
His contributions to the team's success are undeniable. McCullers has pitched in two World Series victories and notably started Game 7 of the 2017 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. These milestones highlight his importance to the Astros' pitching line-up over the years.
Current Contract and Financial Implications
Prior to the 2021 season, the Astros expressed their long-term faith in McCullers by extending his contract with a five-year, $85 million deal. This means McCullers is under contract through the 2026 campaign and is owed $34 million over the next two seasons. This significant investment underscores the Astros’ commitment but also adds a layer of concern given his current fitness issues.
Team Adjustments and New Acquisitions
In light of McCullers' prolonged absence, the Astros have made strategic moves to bolster their pitching roster. The team executed a deadline deal to acquire left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, a move designed to add depth and versatility. Additionally, another star pitcher, Justin Verlander, has been on the mend. He participated in a simulated game on Sunday and is projected to carry out a couple of minor-league rehab assignments. The Astros are optimistic that Verlander will rejoin the team sometime in the middle of the month.
Espada acknowledged the likelihood of McCullers missing the remainder of the season, stating, "The Houston Astros will likely be without right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. for the remainder of the regular season." This candid admission reflects the current state of affairs and the strategic planning required for the team to maintain their competitive edge.
Looking Ahead
While the loss of McCullers is a substantial setback, the Astros are focused on navigating these choppy waters with resilience and foresight. The integration of new talents and the hopeful return of veterans like Verlander are critical to sustaining their momentum. As the team adapts to these challenges, the fans and the organization alike will be watching closely, hopeful for a strong finish to the season despite the adversity they face.