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yesterday

Activated From IL, McCullers Jr. Allows Eight Runs in Comeback Start

The rough outing highlights Houston’s struggle to fill rotation spots lost to multiple surgeries and injuries as the club clings to its AL West lead

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Houston Astros left fielder Cooper Hummel (16) jogs to the dugout during the fourth inning of an MLB baseball game in Houston, Saturday, June 28, 2025.
Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) reacts after hitting a double during the second inning of an MLB baseball game in Houston, Saturday, June 28, 2025.
Houston Astros catcher César Salazar is seen during the eighth inning of an MLB baseball game in Houston, Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Overview

  • Lance McCullers Jr. was activated from the 15-day injured list on June 28 and allowed eight runs over 3⅓ innings in a 12-3 loss to the Chicago Cubs.
  • The Astros optioned right-hander Nick Hernandez to open a roster spot for McCullers’s return.
  • McCullers missed the 2023 and 2024 seasons after right flexor tendon surgery and landed on the injured list June 13 with a right foot sprain.
  • Houston’s rotation has lost Hayden Wesneski and Ronel Blanco for the season to surgery, while Spencer Arrighetti continues to recover from a broken thumb and Luis Garcia and Cristian Javier work through Tommy John rehabilitation.
  • Despite the pitching shortages, the Astros lead the American League West by 6½ games and maintain a 3.41 team ERA, tied for fourth best in MLB.