Just days after the Houston Astros place ace Dallas Keuchel on the disabled list, they've now been forced to place their second ace on the DL. Starting pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. sustained a lower back strain and will miss the next week and a half of action. Houston hasn't yet named a starter to replace McCullers, who was set to make a start on Tuesday against the Texas Rangers.
The 23-year-old has dominated out of the gate this season. Across 76 2/3 innings pitched, the righty owns a 2.58 ERA, 2.67 xFIP and 10.45 K/9. It's been a breakout season for the hurler with outstanding strikeout ability that has helped push him into the ranks of the top American League pitchers and helped the Astros hold the best record in baseball. McCullers hurled a gem on June 8 with eight strikeouts across seven innings of one-run ball, with little effects of a lower back injury shown.
McCullers isn't expected to be sidelined for long and Houston dated his DL trip to June 9, which could allow for an even quicker return. So fantasy owners and Astros fans shouldn't worry too much as it seems McCullers has the chance to return to the mound by next week. Pitching prospect Francis Martes could receive the nod to start in McCullers place, but Houston initially seemed sold on easing him in as a major leaguer by using him out of the bullpen.