The loss of Lance McCullers Jr. was too much for the Houston Astros. While they were able to reach the World Series, the loss of their de facto ace certainly played a part in their defeat to the Braves. Although there had been some hope that McCullers could come back in time to be a factor, that was ultimately for naught.
As it turns out, a postseason return was never a realistic option. McCullers is still approximately a month away from throwing, although his elbow is structurally sound.
Speaking at NRG Stadium before the Texans game, Lance McCullers Jr. (forearm strain) said he should start throwing in "about a month." He said he had another MRI a week and a half ago that came back clean and Dr. Neal ElAttrache said his graft from his 2019 Tommy John looks good.
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) December 5, 2021
Houston Astros hoping Lance McCullers Jr. can be ready for start of season
If McCullers is able to remain on this timeline, he should be ready for the start of spring training. That would realistically make him available for Opening Day, giving the Astros a key part of their rotation from the beginning of the year. However, that is entirely contingent on the season beginning on time, something that is not a given considering the current lockout.
McCullers had what could be considered a breakout season in 2021. He posted a career best 3.16 ERA along with a 1.220 WHiP in his 162.1 innings, striking out 185 batters with 76 walks. Although that walk total was the highest in the majors, McCullers offset that by leading the American League by allowing just 6.8 hits per nine innings.
A healthy McCullers can make a major difference for the Astros in 2022. The rotation has potential but is filled with question marks in Framber Valdez, Jose Urquidy, and Luis Garcia. There is also the Justin Verlander Question – even if he is returning to Houston, there is no guarantee that he will be the ace he was prior to Tommy John surgery.
There is still plenty of time for McCullers to be ready for the start of the year. Even if he is a little behind in terms of a normal offseason, there is no reason for concern. He should be ready for the start of spring training and be ready to take his place in the rotation on Opening Day.
The Houston Astros need Lance McCullers Jr. to be healthy in 2022. Although he has yet to begin throwing, there is no reason for concern.