Surprising Houston Astros update refines return timetable, options for Lance McCullers
SPORTSMAP QUICK HITS
23 May 2022
SPORTSMAP QUICK HITS
After hearing an update on Lance McCullers' health over the weekend, Vanessa & Gallant share their thoughts on when McCullers will be ready to pitch again for the Astros, and how the team may handle pitchers working on short rest in the playoffs moving forward.
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Astros pitcher Jose Urquidy made a lot of fans nervous on Friday when he exited his spring training start after just 43 pitches. Elbow pain reportedly was what cut his start short. Urquidy was then sent back to Houston for further evaluation.
Astros manager Joe Espada gave an injury update on Monday. According to MLB.com's Brain McTaggart, Urquidy is dealing with a forearm muscle strain and will likely begin the season on IL.
Urquidy has been diagnosed with a forearm muscle strain and won’t throw for a few days, manager Joe Espada said. He’s likely to start season on IL.
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) March 18, 2024
Based on the information we have, this sounds like good news for Houston. There was no mention of the UCL, or any other elbow issues which could lead to Tommy John surgery being necessary.
But with Justin Verlander and Urquidy being unavailable to start the season, the Astros will have to rely on their depth. As of today, the rotation to start the season should be: Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, Hunter Brown, JP France, and Ronel Blanco.