Houston Astros pitcher Luis Garcia will miss the remainder of the season due to an elbow injury that requires Tommy John surgery. Although a date for the procedure has not been determined, the team expects Garcia to return during the 2024 season. Garcia was placed on the 15-day injured list after experiencing elbow discomfort and leaving Monday’s game against the San Francisco Giants after just eight pitches.
Another Blow to Astros’ Starting Rotation
Garcia’s injury is a significant setback for the Astros, who are already struggling with their starting rotation. Fellow right-hander Jose Urquidy was also placed on the injured list on the same day as Garcia with inflammation in his pitching shoulder. The Astros are also without star second baseman Jose Altuve, who has been out all season with a broken thumb, and veteran outfielder Michael Brantley, who is recovering from shoulder surgery. Outfielder Chas McCormick is also sidelined with lower back tightness.
France to Make MLB Debut
To help fill the void in the Astros’ pitching rotation, the team has added J.P. France to the taxi squad. The 28-year-old right-hander is expected to make his Major League debut against the Mariners on Saturday. France was drafted by the Astros in the 14th round in 2018 and has a 2-1 record with a 2.33 ERA through five games this season at Triple-A Sugar Land, with 26 strikeouts and 11 walks in 19⅓ innings.
A Tough Road Ahead for the Astros
The Astros will have to overcome the loss of Garcia and the ongoing injuries to key players as they continue their season. Manager Dusty Baker expects McCormick and Brantley to join the team later on the road trip, likely when they face the Angels in Southern California. While the team faces significant challenges, they will continue to work toward success on the field.
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