Last World Series, the Astros ran out of energy at the very end and that was largely due to the loss of Lance McCullers Jr. Dusty Baker had to overtax some pitchers, who were tired.
For McCullers Jr., hopes start the year on the mound with the Astros, but he’s lagging in his rehabilitation.
#Astro Lance McCullers Jr. says he’s a bit behind where he expected to be at this point in recovery from last season’s flexor tendon strainhttps://t.co/OEbGMmmSXL
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) February 24, 2022
In December, the right-hander claimed he would start throwing again in a month, but here he is two months later and he still hasn’t practiced on a mound.
The opener is scheduled for March 31, but all indications are that it will be postponed if MLB and the Players’ Association can’t find common ground by Monday. If miraculously the two sides come to an agreement and the season starts on time, that would give McCullers Jr. about four or five weeks to be ready for the start of the season.
The main interested party indicated however that he does not know if he will be. If he hasn’t pitched since October, I don’t think he’ll be able to pitch in the opener either…
Yes, postponing the season is a very feasible option. It would still allow the injured more time to heal in time. On the other hand, during a work stoppage, players and coaches cannot get in touch, which sometimes makes rehabilitation more difficult.
For McCullers Jr., he was one of the best pitchers on the team in 2021. His playoff loss hurt badly and if the Astros still want to make the World Series in 2022, their pitcher’s health is paramount.
