Houston Astros Face Rest of Season Without Lance McCullers Jr.
The Houston Astros will complete the regular season without their star pitcher, Lance McCullers Jr. McCullers has been sidelined by complications following off-season surgery, and an unlikely return this year forces the Astros to navigate the final stretch and potential postseason without the seasoned right-hander.
Setbacks Following Surgery
McCullers underwent a significant procedure last summer, which included the repair of a flexor tendon in his throwing arm and the removal of a bone spur. Despite initial hopes for a successful recovery, his progress has been fraught with difficulties. As bench coach Joe Espada noted, "The Houston Astros will likely be without right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. for the remainder of the regular season."
The pitcher hasn't progressed to the point of starting a rehabilitation assignment. A setback in early July further dashed hopes of a quicker return, making it increasingly improbable for McCullers to contribute this season.
McCullers' Career with the Astros
McCullers made his Major League debut with the Astros in 2015. Over his career, he's compiled a respectable 3.48 ERA (118 ERA+), with a 2.70 strikeout-to-walk ratio across 130 appearances. Despite his obvious skills, McCullers has had a career marred by injuries, surpassing the 150-inning mark only once, in 2021. His second-highest inning total was 128, recorded in 2018.
McCullers has been instrumental in the Astros' success, pitching in two World Series victories. Notably, he started Game 7 of the 2017 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, securing his place in the franchise's storied moments.
Financial Commitments and Future Prospects
The Astros demonstrated their faith in McCullers' abilities prior to the 2021 season, signing him to a five-year, $85 million extension. This agreement keeps him under contract through the 2026 campaign. However, with McCullers owed $34 million over the next two seasons, his prolonged absence raises questions about the return on that investment.
Adjustments on the Mound
To bolster their pitching depth, the Astros executed a deadline deal to acquire left-hander Yusei Kikuchi. Additionally, Justin Verlander's recovery from injury offers a glimmer of hope. Verlander recently participated in a simulated game and is set to undertake a couple of minor-league rehab assignments. The team expects him to rejoin the rotation sometime in the middle of the month.
As the Astros aim to defend their standing and make a deep playoff run, they will have to adapt to McCullers’ absence with the pieces they have. His career statistics and impact will certainly be missed, but the team remains determined to push forward with the talent at hand.