Home / Sports / Astros Shift Cristian Javier to Relief Pitcher
Astros Shift Cristian Javier to Relief Pitcher
2 Jul
Summary
- Cristian Javier will be activated Friday after a shoulder strain.
- He will pitch from the bullpen, not as a starter.
- This move is considered short-term by the manager.
Cristian Javier is slated to return to the Houston Astros this Friday after an early April shoulder strain sidelined him. Initially a starting pitcher, Javier will now be activated from the 60-day injured list and will pitch out of the bullpen.
Manager Joe Espada indicated that Javier's new role will be a "typical role," suggesting he will be used for one or two innings. This decision was made despite Javier successfully completing a 30-day rehab assignment, where he pitched six innings without allowing a run in his final outing. Espada emphasized that the move is what's best for the team and for Javier, not due to his minor league performance, and that the situation could change.
Javier has primarily been a starter since the 2023 season and is in the fourth year of a significant five-year, $68 million contract. This bullpen role is likely a temporary measure, as the Astros' current rotation is performing well. The team also has off days approaching, allowing flexibility to integrate Javier as needed without disrupting the established pitching order.
