Struggling Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. confesses to feelings of frustration
Houston Astros' Rotation Under Pressure as Struggles Continue
The Houston Astros' rotation is facing challenges as the season progresses, with key players like Framber Valdez and Lance McCullers Jr. struggling to find their form.
In his 12th start of the 2025 season on Friday night, McCullers allowed three earned runs, five hits, and five walks in four innings. This outing, against the Baltimore Orioles, offered little reassurance and has raised concerns about his performance this season. McCullers' season ERA now stands at 6.89 with a 1.80 WHIP over 38.1 innings.
Earlier in the week, Valdez faced the Detroit Tigers, a game that marked his roughest outing of the month. Valdez allowed seven earned runs over five innings, a stark contrast to his previous performances. Through four starts this month, Valdez owns a 7.33 ERA, raising concerns about his reliability down the stretch. His worst ERA of 5.76 in 2025 occurred in May, and he has yet to regain the consistency that made him a key player for the Astros.
Despite these struggles, Houston's offense has shown signs of improvement. After scoring just two runs in a four-game stretch, the team has delivered timely hits for the second straight game. Jeremy Pena led the offensive surge with a three-run homer and an RBI double, while Christian Walker added a three-run blast to the Astros' total. Victor Caratini also came through with a clutch pinch-hit two-run double in the eighth.
One bright spot for the Astros' rotation is the performance of Jeremy Pena. Only Hunter Brown is providing consistent length for the team's rotation. Luis Garcia is nearing a return, but there is no set timetable for his return.
After the game, McCullers reflected on his struggles with a reporter from The Athletic. He acknowledged the control issues that unraveled his outing, leading to a long fourth inning. McCullers briefly touched 94.5 mph with his sinker, suggesting that he still has the potential to perform at a high level.
As the Astros continue their quest for another World Series title, the team will need to address these issues in the rotation to ensure a successful postseason run.
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