How Houston Astros’ pitching staff faces major challenges ahead

STONE COLD 'STROS

Astros Josh Hader, Jose Urquidy, and Cristian Javier
Jose Urquidy and Cristian Javier are out for the season. Composite Getty Image.

The Astros have finally made the news official, just like we suspected for almost two weeks, Jose Urquidy and Cristian Javier are out for the season and undergoing surgery on their right elbows.

Urquidy is scheduled to have his surgery Wednesday, and Javier is set for his procedure on Thursday. Astros GM Dana Brown said on the club's flagship station that the team will be in the market for starting pitching if they find a deal that “makes sense” for the team. But overall, he's very pleased with the team's starting five.

He believes they have enough talent currently to compete for a World Series with their current rotation.

One other concern is JP France's health. He still isn't throwing a baseball, so we shouldn't expect him to help the team anytime soon. Plus, with no depth on the starting staff, even more pressure is going to be put on the bullpen.

When will Kyle Tucker return?

Brown also gave an update on Kyle Tucker, who has a bone bruise on his shin. The hope is he will be able to return to the lineup this weekend.

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Worth watching for every Astros fan. Composite Getty Image.

MLB Network's Mark DeRosa and Chris Young break down Hunter Brown’s recent dominance — and Young poses a big question: “How soon before he overtakes Framber Valdez as the team’s ace?”

DeRosa’s take? In the postseason, it’s all about riding the hot hand.

That's a bold statement, considering Framber's pedigree. But is he right?

Watch the full video below to see how Brown is turning heads and making his case as one of MLB’s top starters.

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