Injured Houston Astros ace finally returns to active roster

The Houston Astros made it official by returning injured ace Cristian Javier to the active roster before his departure Saturday night.

The corresponding roster move designates Brandon Bielak for assignment.

Unlike many of Houston’s stars, Javier actually had a fantastic start to his 2024 season. Much like the rest of the pitchers, it all fell apart after he suffered a neck injury that kept him from playing. going outside for almost a month.

Through his first four outings, Javier has a 1.54 ERA and a 1.114 WHIP. Although he hasn’t struck out batters at as high a rate as in previous seasons, he’s pitching as well as ever.

He hadn’t given up an earned run in his first two outings, but gave up two in each of his two starts.

The 27-year-old hasn’t had the best success with his fastball this time around, but he has become a much more effective offspeed pitcher.

He reduced his fastball usage by about 20% and shifted the same amount to his changeup. This change has proven to be very effective so far and is its biggest change.

This is a crucial win for the Astros as they try to get back into the playoff conversation despite a 14-24 start to the year.

Javier will make his first start against the Detroit Tigers on Saturday night.

Bielak, out of options, will have to go through waivers before Houston can send him to AAA.

The 28-year-old has had a bit of a rough year, but he still has some value and the franchise probably wants to keep him.

His ERA has climbed to 5.71 in 17.1 innings of work thus far. His FIP is also a career-worst mark of 5.92.