Overview
- Javier is set to start Monday’s opener against the Boston Red Sox, marking his first major-league appearance since May 21, 2024, and he’ll face left-hander Garrett Crochet
- He completed five rehab starts at Triple-A Sugar Land, allowing one earned run while striking out six and walking four in his most recent outing
- Houston designated outfielder Cooper Hummel for assignment, recalled Jacob Melton and optioned Colton Gordon to clear a 40-man roster spot for Javier
- Javier’s comeback bolsters a staff that has seen six starters undergo Tommy John surgery since 2023 and peaked with a league-high 19 players on the injured list
- At 66-52, Houston holds a half-game lead in the AL West and relies on regained starters to sustain its tight divisional margin