The Astros have been dealing with a long list of injuries all season, but seem to be turning a corner securing their fourth straight series win. Other good news for the Astros is several key players are nearing their returns.
Here is where things stand with each player nearing their return:
Cristian Javier
Javier has been out since April with a Grade 2 right shoulder strain. He threw 75 pitches over 4 2/3 innings of three-run ball in his most recent rehab start, and he struck out five, per MLB. He could be back as early as their upcoming series against Detroit.
Nick Allen
Allen is dealing with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain since June 8. He is expected to begin rehab games this weekend, and has been taking batting practice and fielding ground balls. Allen is also expected to return at the end of the month.
LaMonte Wade Jr.
Wade has been on the IL since June 9 with right hamstring soreness. He is taking batting practice, shagging fly balls, and his upcoming rehab assignment is coming soon. Wade is also expected back towards the end of this month.
Ronel Blanco and Lance McCullers Jr.
Both pitchers are working toward July returns. Blanco threw three scoreless innings in his first rehab start and will make his next start June 25 at Double-A Corpus Christi.
McCullers will make his first rehab start June 25 for Triple-A Sugar Land, per MLB. Getting these two arms back would be a major boost to the pitching staff.
As for players on a longer healing journey:
Hayden Wesneski is still working back from Tommy John surgery, threw live batting practice June 20, targeting a second half return. Carlos Correa is out for the rest of the season after ankle surgery in May. Brandon Walter is also out for the season recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Between Hunter Brown, Altuve, and Diaz already back, and now this group on the way, the Astros are getting healthier by the week. These players are coming back at the perfect time as the team pushes toward the All-Star break. This kind of depth could make a real difference in the second half.
A lot of pieces are starting to fall into place for Houston, and giving them the boost they need. If even a few of these names return and contribute, this rotation and lineup get a lot deeper.
