The season hasn’t even started yet, and the Astros are already dealing with injuries.
Last year, injuries led to their demise, and the hope is to start the season strong and healthy. But a few players are already under injury watch, including relief pitcher Nate Pearson.
Nate Pearson, who was signed in October, has had to slow his progress, and there is now doubt about whether he will be ready for Opening Day.
He had an elbow cleanup procedure during the offseason, and after a bullpen session, he experienced soreness after throwing sliders.
He is playing catch, but it is unknown when he will be able to return to the mound. Pearson has pitched almost exclusively in relief in the major leagues but entered camp as a candidate to stretch out as a starter.
Last season, the 29-year-old split his time between the Chicago Cubs and their Triple-A affiliate, Iowa. Despite averaging 97.6 mph in the majors and 98–101 mph in the minors, topping out at 102 mph, Pearson was ultimately released on September 21 after struggling at the Major League level. Despite a rocky year, the Astros are focused on the bigger picture, per Houston Chronicle.
Unfortunately, Pearson is now dealing with an injury and is currently limited. While the hard-throwing right-hander’s return date is unknown, it is looking like he will miss Opening Day. Rushing him back into the game is never the right move, but if all goes well, Pearson should be making his debut as an Astro in the near future.