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Astros Face Mariners Again Amid Rotation Woes
The Houston Astros’ ailing starting rotation has taken another hit as they prepare for a crucial series against the Seattle Mariners. Right-hander Cristian Javier, initially set to start Tuesday night’s game, has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to “right forearm discomfort.” This injury further strains a rotation already struggling with significant absences.
Cristian Javier’s Injury Impact
Cristian Javier, with a record of 3-1 and an ERA of 3.89, has been a pivotal figure in the Astros’ rotation. His latest injury compounds the team’s difficulties, especially as Javier had already missed three weeks earlier this season due to a neck ailment. Manager Joe Espada confirmed that Javier was unable to complete his scheduled bullpen session on Sunday and will undergo an MRI on Tuesday.
Ongoing Issues with Jose Urquidy
The Astros are also without starter Jose Urquidy, who strained his forearm during spring training and has yet to pitch this season. Urquidy aggravated the injury in a rehab start for Triple-A Sugar Land last Friday. His condition is set to be re-evaluated on Tuesday, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the Astros’ pitching staff.
The Return of Jose Abreu
Despite these setbacks, the Astros received a boost with the return of first baseman Jose Abreu. After nearly a month of working on his swing at the team’s spring training complex in West Palm Beach, Florida, Abreu returned to the lineup on Monday. The 37-year-old, who was the 2020 American League MVP with the Chicago White Sox, had struggled earlier in the season, batting just .099 with one extra-base hit and three RBIs.
Abreu’s return was marked by a promising performance, going 1-for-3 and driving in a run with a single in the fifth inning. Manager Joe Espada noted the mental refreshment Abreu exhibited, indicating a positive shift in his approach. “He just looks better, but for me, it was more about how mentally fresh he looks,” Espada said. “He seems to be in a much better place and seems happy, and he’s excited to be back with the club and his teammates.”
Monday’s Game Recap
The Astros fell to the Mariners 3-2 in the series opener. All of Seattle’s runs were scored in the first inning off Framber Valdez. Despite a solid outing from Valdez afterward, the Astros’ offense couldn’t muster enough to overcome the early deficit. Bryce Miller, who had lost his previous four decisions, led the Mariners to victory with a strong performance, supported by effective bullpen work.
Hunter Brown’s Upcoming Start
With the rotation in flux, right-hander Hunter Brown (1-5, 7.06 ERA) is scheduled to start on Tuesday on normal rest, thanks to the Astros’ day off last Thursday. Brown’s previous encounter with the Mariners on May 5 resulted in a no-decision, where he allowed two runs on five hits over 4 1/3 innings, with four walks and five strikeouts. Historically, Brown has struggled against the Mariners, posting an 0-2 record with an 11.70 ERA in three starts.
Mariners’ Ace Luis Castillo
Opposing Brown will be Mariners’ ace Luis Castillo (4-6, 3.31 ERA). Castillo has been effective against the Astros in his career, holding a 2-1 record with a 3.81 ERA in four starts. The matchup between Brown and Castillo will be pivotal as the Astros aim to overcome their current challenges.
Conclusion
The Houston Astros are facing a tough stretch with key injuries in their starting rotation. The return of Jose Abreu brings some optimism, but the team will need solid performances from their remaining pitchers and contributions from their lineup to navigate this challenging period. As they continue their series against the Seattle Mariners, the Astros’ resilience and depth will be thoroughly tested.
