The Houston Astros are finding their stride just in time, reaching the .500 mark for the first time this season. On Wednesday afternoon, they achieved a 40-40 record by completing a two-game sweep of the Colorado Rockies, propelling their current winning streak to seven games.
Despite a shaky start, the Astros have shown resilience. Beginning the season with an 0-4 record and later dropping to 7-19 by April 25, the team faced early adversity. However, since entering June with a 25-33 record, they've managed to turn things around significantly by winning 15 of their last 22 games. This latest victory moves them within 4.5 games of the division lead, offering a glimmer of hope for the season's second half.
Wednesday's game showcased a stellar performance by Spencer Arrighetti, who held the Rockies scoreless over seven innings, striking out a career-high 10 batters. His dominant outing was crucial, especially given the Astros’ recent struggles on the mound.
Challenges have been plentiful for Houston's pitching staff. Right-hander J.P. France is set to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery after posting a 7.46 ERA in five starts before being demoted to Triple-A. France had shown promise last year with a 3.83 ERA over 136 1/3 innings, but this season's efforts were hampered by injury.
The team has already lost key pitchers Cristian Javier and José Urquidy to Tommy John surgery earlier this month. Adding to the woes, ace Justin Verlander is sidelined with a neck issue, leaving his return date uncertain.
Manager Joe Espada discussed the rehabilitation process of other injured pitchers. "Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr. are still working their way back from last year's elbow surgeries," Espada mentioned earlier this week. The absence of these critical arms has undoubtedly impacted the Astros' rotation, which currently holds a 4.26 ERA, ranking 18th in baseball. For much of the season, the Astros have languished among the bottom five teams in the ERA category.
General Manager Dana Brown also reflected on the challenges of managing injuries, particularly relating to J.P. France's situation. "When he got hurt in spring training and he felt the discomfort, we were really pressing to get him back, and maybe we may have rushed him a little bit," Brown revealed during the team's pregame show. "Especially with Verlander being out at the same time, we were trying to really plug holes in this rotation. He felt pretty good, and so we pressed him a little bit and he tried to pitch through it. I think this time we're probably going to be more patient."
The Astros now face a significant test with a 10-game road trip after a well-earned off-day on Thursday. They will first take on the New York Mets, followed by series against the Toronto Blue Jays and Minnesota Twins. The Blue Jays series spans four games, while the Mets and Twins series are three games each. This stretch of games could be pivotal in determining whether Houston can maintain their newfound momentum and make a push towards the division lead.
As the season progresses, the Astros' ability to stay competitive despite their rotation's injury woes will be closely watched. Their recent turnaround, highlighted by key performances from players like Arrighetti, emphasizes the depth and resilience within the team. If Houston can continue this trajectory, they may well overcome their early-season struggles and position themselves as contenders in the division.