When the Houston Astros clinched the World Series title in 2022, their rotation was a powerhouse. Fast forward to today, and that dominance feels like a distant memory.
Injuries have been the Achilles' heel for the Astros' rotation recently. Last season, only Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown managed to pitch over 90 innings. This lack of depth pushed the front office to bring in Tatsuya Imai, yet the rotation remains a question mark.
The spotlight this season is on Lance McCullers Jr., who could be the key to unlocking the Astros' potential.
Lance McCullers Jr.: A Pivotal Season Ahead
McCullers, since signing his five-year extension in 2022, has faced a rocky road, pitching just 103 innings. He missed the entire 2023 season with a strained tendon and bone spur, and setbacks in rehab kept him out for 2024 as well. Last year, he returned but found himself on the injured list three times.
Now in the final year of his contract, McCullers seems unfazed by the stakes. However, his inability to stay healthy has significantly diminished the value of his deal. Houston hoped he would be their next franchise star, but instead, they've seen a 4.54 ERA over 21 starts in four years.
If McCullers can stay healthy and perform at his best, the Astros could boast a formidable rotation with Imai, Brown, and a rejuvenated Cristian Javier. But if 2026 brings more injuries, the team will face a tough challenge in finding a replacement.
As McCullers approaches free agency after this season, his injury history could make it difficult for him to attract interest. This year might be the last opportunity for both him and the Astros to salvage value from a contract that hasn't lived up to expectations.