Cristian Javier Injury News & Updates

Javier has been confirmed as the starting pitcher for Game 3 of the ALCS against the Rangers, Adam Spolane of Sports Radio 610 reports.

Javier will be tasked with helping his club dig out of an 0-2 hole after Houston dropped both games at Minute Maid Park. The right-hander struggled to limit free passes during Game 3 of the ALDS against the Twins (five walks), but he managed to toss five scoreless innings on just one hit allowed while fanning nine batters.

Javier (10-5) yielded three hits and two walks over six shutout frames Sunday, striking out four and earning a win over Arizona.

Javier allowed just one extra-base hit and never found himself in much danger Sunday, cruising to his 10th victory. It was his first win since Aug. 21 and first scoreless appearance since June 15. Despite posting a 2.84 ERA through his first 12 starts, Javier ended the regular season with a disappointing 4.56 ERA through 162 innings. In 11 starts since the beginning of August, he recorded a 5.00 ERA.

Javier (9-5) allowed four runs (three earned) on three hits and three walks while striking out six over 4.2 innings to take the loss Tuesday versus the Mariners.

Javier was tagged for two runs in the third inning and two more before his exit in the fifth. This was his fourth straight outing of no more than five innings, and he's gone six starts without a win. The right-hander is at a 4.67 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 155:60 K:BB through 156 innings over 30 starts this season. Javier may not start again in the regular season since the Astros have just four games left, though he'd be available on regular rest by the last game of this weekend's series versus Arizona if Houston manages to secure a playoff spot before then.

Javier did not factor into the decision Wednesday, allowing a run on three hits and two walks over five innings in a 2-1 victory over the Orioles. He struck out 11.

After allowing a run in the opening frame, Javier would rebound to blank the Orioles over his final four innings, matching a season high with 11 strikeouts. Though he's now gone three consecutive outings without a quality start, it was a positive performance from Javier, who'd struggled to a 6.28 ERA in his previous six starts (28.2 innings). Overall, the right-hander is 9-4 with a 4.64 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 149:57 K:BB across 29 starts (151.1 innings) this season. Javier's currently lined up to face the Mariners on the road early next week in what will likely be his final regular-season outing.

Javier (9-4) took the loss Friday, giving up three runs (two earned) on five hits and a walk over five innings as the Astros fell 4-2 to the Royals. He struck out six.

Single runs by Kansas City in the third, fourth and fifth innings -- the latter two on solo shots by Nelson Velazquez and Bobby Witt -- proved to be too much for the Houston offense to overcome, and Javier got the hook after 81 pitches (52 strikes). The right-hander has served up at least one homer in nine straight outings, a stretch in which he has a rough 5.68 ERA and 1.47 WHIP despite a 44:22 K:BB through 44.1 innings. Javier will try to get back on track in his next start, likely to come at home next week against the Orioles.

Javier allowed four runs on four hits and three walks while striking out five batters over four innings in a no-decision against San Diego on Saturday.

Javier got through three frames without allowing a run before things fell apart in the fourth. In that inning, the right-hander surrendered four runs on three hits and a pair of walks, with a Jurickson Profar two-run homer being the big blow. Javier didn't return to the mound for the fifth, marking his second four-inning start over his past three contests. Walks have been an issue in both of those outings -- he issued six free passes Aug. 28 against Boston. Javier held a 2.90 ERA through his first 14 starts of the season, but that mark has jumped to 4.78 due to an ugly 7.27 ERA over his subsequent 13 appearances.

Javier (9-3) allowed three runs on four hits and struck out eight without walking a batter over six innings, taking the loss versus the Yankees on Sunday.

Javier cruised through five innings, but he allowed three hits, including a two-run home run to Jasson Dominguez, in the sixth, which flipped the game around. This was a baseline quality start for Javier, his first such effort since July 28. The right-hander struggled to a 6.17 ERA and 16:16 K:BB over 23.1 innings in August. For the year, he's posted a 4.65 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 127:51 K:BB through 137.1 innings over 26 starts. Javier is projected for a home matchup versus the Padres next weekend.

Javier allowed four runs on six hits and six walks over four-plus innings in Monday's win over Boston. He struck out four and did not factor in the decision.

Javier coughed up two runs in the first inning followed by Adam Duvall's two-run shot in the fifth. Over his last 11 starts, Javier has produced an unsightly 7.46 ERA and 43:32 K:BB. His season ERA has jumped to 4.66 across 131.1 innings. Javier's next outing is lined up to be on the road against the Rangers next week.

Javier (9-2) allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks over five innings Monday, striking out three and earning a win over Boston.

It wasn't Javier's cleanest outing but he looked sharper after coughing up a three-run shot in the first inning. He produced a 2.90 ERA through 14 starts to begin the year but owns an ugly 7.33 ERA over his last 10 outings. He's now sporting a 4.52 ERA with a 115:45 K:BB through 127.1 frames. Javier's next outing is lined up to be in Detroit this weekend.

Javier did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing five runs (four earned) on six hits and a walk over 4.2 innings against the Marlins. He struck out two.

Javier hadn't allowed more than three runs in a start since July 3, pitching to a 4.44 ERA over his previous five outings. After holding the Marlins off the board in the first inning, the 26-year-old Javier allowed at least one run in each of his subsequent four innings before he was pulled in the fifth after throwing 95 pitches. Overall, Javier's 8-2 with a 4.49 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 112:42 K:BB across 23 starts (122.1 innings) this season. He'll look to bounce back in his next outing, currently scheduled for next week against Boston.

Javier (8-2) picked up the win in Wednesday's 8-2 victory over the Orioles, giving up two runs on four hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out three.

Incredibly, Javier's last win came all the way back on June 3, as over his prior nine starts he'd gone 0-1 with a 6.91 ERA and 1.56 WHIP. Homers have been his biggest of late, as the right-hander has served up nine in his last 34.2 innings -- including a two-run shot by Austin Hays on Wednesday -- but he was able to avoid any other damage in this one. Javier will attempt to put together an actual win streak in his next outing, likely to come early next week in Miami.

Javier did not factor into the decision Thursday, allowing three runs on four hits and three walks over 4.2 innings in a 4-3 loss to the Yankees. He struck out four.

Javier was tagged for three runs on back-to-back homers in the first inning, though he'd ultimately settle down and blank the Yankees over his final 3.2 frames. Javier has pitched better of late, holding opponents to three runs or fewer in his last four outings, after struggling to a 9.14 ERA in his prior five starts. Overall, his ERA sits at 4.39 with a 1.21 WHIP and 107:38 K:BB across 21 starts (112.2 innings) this season. Javier's currently in line for a road matchup against the Orioles in his next start.

Astros manager Dusty Baker confirmed Wednesday that Javier will start Thursday's series opener at Yankee Stadium, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports.

Javier has been getting an extra day of rest between his recent string of starts and the Astros can continue with that model as they prepare to welcome back Jose Urquidy (shoulder) and trade-deadline acquisition Justin Verlander. Hunter Brown will work Friday's game in New York and then Urquidy and Verlander should slot in Saturday and Sunday.

Javier will get pushed back an extra day and will likely take the ball Thursday at Yankee Stadium, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports.

It's unclear who the Astros will start Wednesday, but apparently they have been pleased with how Javier has responded to pitching with an extra day of rest, so this could be a theme going forward. Javier's worst start of the year came on normal rest July 3 at Texas and he has received at least an extra day of rest ahead of his three most recent starts, during which he has posted a 4.32 ERA and 1.08 WHIP while striking out 21 in 16.2 innings.

Javier did not factor into the decision Friday, allowing three runs on three hits and two walks over six innings in a 4-3 loss against Tampa Bay. He struck out nine.

After handing out six free passes his last time out, Javier only issued two walks. However, the command issues were still prevalent in the form of three hit batsmen and a homer allowed. Javier started the season by going 7-1 with a 2.84 ERA and 0.99 WHIP over his first 12 starts (69.2 innings), but his performance has slipped considerably over the past two months. Despite his struggles, the Astros figure to keep him in the rotation, though they will have options with the impending return of Jose Urquidy (shoulder).

Javier (7-2) allowed two runs on one hit and six walks while striking out five over 5.2 innings, taking the loss Saturday versus the Athletics.

Javier didn't give up a hit until the sixth inning. He put two on with two outs, but Phil Maton let three straight runners reach base and allowed two inherited runners to score, which was enough to leave Javier with the loss. It's been a rough stretch for Javier, who has given up 23 runs while walking 14 over his last 21.1 innings across five starts. The poor pitching has him up to a 4.32 ERA with a 1.22 WHIP and 94:33 K:BB through 102 innings overall. The right-hander is tentatively scheduled for a much tougher matchup at home versus Tampa Bay for his next start.

Javier did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks over five innings against the Angels. He struck out seven.

Javier still didn't look his sharpest but it was a decent start to his second half. Over his previous three starts, he was tagged with 18 runs in just 10.2 innings. Javier had also turned in nine straight outings with five or fewer punchouts prior to Sunday's performance. He now owns a 4.39 ERA and an 89:27 K:BB through 96.1 frames. Javier's next start is lined up to be in Oakland.

Javier is slated to start Sunday's game against the Angels in Anaheim.

After Javier surrendered 18 earned runs on 21 hits and six walks over 10.2 innings across his last three starts, the Astros elected to skip his final turn through the rotation prior to the All-Star break. The Astros are hoping that the extended break allowed Javier to potentially address any mechanical flaws that may have affected his performance, as the team isn't ready to pull the plug on him as a starter in light of his strong track record for the majority of the last two seasons. Even with the recent rough patch, Javier still owns decent ratios (4.34 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 15.0 K-BB%) over his 17 starts in 2023.

Javier will not make another start before the All-Star break, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports.

Javier's next turn would be Saturday, but he'll be held back until the second half. The Astros have not revealed any sort of injury for Javier, but rather this seems more designed to give him some extended rest given his struggles lately. Javier has put up a 15.19 ERA with a 6:6 K:BB over 10.2 innings covering his last three starts.

Javier might not make another start before the All-Star break, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

Javier's next turn would be Saturday against the Mariners, but it sounds like the team could opt to give him some extended rest around the All-Star break in light of his recent struggles. The right-hander has been touched up for a 15.19 ERA with a 6:6 K:BB over 10.2 frames covering his last three outings.

Javier did not factor into the decision Monday, allowing eight runs on nine hits over 4.1 innings against the Rangers. He struck out four.

Javier has now allowed 18 runs over his last three starts, failing to make it through five innings in each. After pitching to a 2.90 ERA through his first 14 starts, Javier's ERA's ballooned to 4.34 with a 1.22 WHIP and 82:25 K:BB through 17 starts (91.1 innings) this season. The 26-year-old right-hander will try to right the ship in his next outing, tentatively lined up for next week against the Mariners.

Javier did not factor into the decision Wednesday, allowing six runs on eight hits and one walk over four innings against the Cardinals. He struck out one.

After allowing four runs just once over his first 12 starts, Javier has now given up at least four in three of his last four appearances. During that stretch, he owns a 7.27 ERA and has more walks (nine) than strikeouts (six). Despite his struggles, Javier hasn't taken a loss since April 29 and continues to be bailed out by Houston's offense. As long as he's healthy, the right-hander should remain a prominent part of Houston's rotation, and he'll look to get back on track in his next start, which is tentatively scheduled during a four-game set in Texas.

Javier didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 10-8 win over the Mets, surrendering four runs on four hits and five walks over 2.1 innings. He struck out one.

It was a brutal outing for the right-hander, who needed 82 pitches (45 strikes) to record seven outs and issued a career-high five free passes, but the Houston offense quickly bailed him out. Javier's ability to keep the ball in the park has been his saving grace lately -- he has a 13:11 K:BB over his last five starts and 24.1 innings, but just a 3.70 ERA thanks to serving up only one homer during that stretch. He'll try to get back on track in his next trip to the mound, which is likely to come next week in St. Louis.

Javier finished with a no-decision against Washington on Thursday despite pitching six scoreless frames. He allowed five hits and struck out two batters.

All five hits against Javier went for a single, and he didn't issue any free passes for the third time this season. However, Houston didn't give him any run support, resulting in his second straight no-decision. This was the first time on the campaign that Javier has tossed a scoreless outing, though it was eighth quality start over 14 appearances. His strikeouts have been down lately -- the right-hander has notched just two in each of his past two starts -- but Javier has been consistently effective overall, posting a 7-1 record, 2.90 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 76:19 K:BB over 80.2 innings.

Javier didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 10-9 extra-innings loss to the Guardians, giving up four runs on seven hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out two.

It was one of the shakier outings this season for the right-hander, and only the second time in 13 starts he's allowed more than three runs, but Javier still exited the game with the Astros ahead 5-4. A wild finish that saw the Houston bullpen blow five separate late leads before Cleveland finally won in 14 innings made sure Javier's five-game win streak was snapped, however. He'll take a 3.13 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 74:19 K:BB through 74.2 innings into his next start, likely to come at home next weekend against the Reds.

Javier (7-1) earned the win over the Angels on Saturday, allowing one run on six hits and no walks while striking out five batters over six innings.

Javier notched just two victories through his first seven starts this season, but he's now reeled off five straight wins and is tied for second in MLB with seven victories overall. The right-hander notched his fifth quality start over his past six appearances with six solid innings Saturday, and he was pulled after 102 pitches with Houston comfortably ahead. Javier has been remarkably consistent this season, tossing at least five frames in all 12 of his starts and giving up more than three runs just once. His strikeout numbers have waned lately -- he has just 18 over his past 23 innings -- but that's a minor complaint given his continued excellence.

Javier (6-1) allowed a run on four hits and three walks while striking out three over five innings to earn the win Sunday over the Athletics.

Javier gave up a leadoff home run to Ryan Noda in the first inning, but that was the extent of the Athletics' scoring. Despite the damage prevention, Javier was far from dominant -- he threw just 46 of 88 pitches for strikes, and the three walks were a season high. He's won four starts in a row and now has a 2.97 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 67:16 K:BB through 63.2 innings across 11 outings. The right-hander is lined up for a home start versus the Angels for his next outing.

Javier (5-1) earned the win over Milwaukee on Monday, allowing one run on four hits and one walk while striking out five batters over six innings.

Javier served up a second-inning solo homer to Rowdy Tellez, but that was the only run the Brewers could manage against him. Meanwhile, Houston pounded out 10 runs over the first six frames, allowing Javier to exit with a win comfortably in his grasp. The right-hander finished with his fourth straight quality start and sixth overall this season while lowering his ERA to 3.07. Javier has given up more than three earned runs just once across 10 starts.

Javier (4-1) allowed one earned run on two hits and two walks while striking out five across six innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Cubs.

Javier allowed a home run to Matt Mervis in the second inning but otherwise shut down the Cubs' offense. Though he didn't have his typical strikeout stuff, he still managed 10 swinging strikes on 88 total pitches. Javier now has four consecutive quality starts in his last five outings, maintaining a 2.93 ERA and 0.85 WHIP with a 40:8 K:BB across 30.2 frames in that span.

Javier (3-1) earned the win Wednesday, allowing two runs on three hits and one walk over six innings during a 5-4 win over the Angels. He struck out 11.

Javier has completed at least five innings in each of his first eight starts and allowed fewer than three runs seven times during that stretch. The right-hander recorded a season-high 11 strikeouts Wednesday en route to his third win, marking the second time he's struck out double digits this year. Javier sports a 3.47 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 54:10 K:BB through 46.2 innings and will look to maintain his strong play during his next start, which is tentatively scheduled for a three-game set versus the Cubs.

Javier did not factor into the decision Friday, allowing three runs on three hits and two walks over seven innings against the Mariners. He struck out eight.

Javier tossed seven innings for the first time this season, while also posting a 4:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio. The right-hander has been a solid option all year, sporting a 1.06 WHIP and never giving up more than four runs in a start. The 26-year-old is tentatively slated to face the Angels in his next appearance.

Javier (2-1) took the loss Saturday, allowing three runs on seven hits and one walk over 5.2 innings against the Phillies. He struck out six.

Javier gave up more than five hits for the first time since March 31 while Nick Castellanos' solo homer in the fourth inning marked his fourth straight start allowing a long ball. Javier made matters worse after the Castellanos home run by giving up a double to Brandon Marsh and advancing him to third on a wild pitch where he'd eventually score on a sacrifice fly hit by J.T. Realmuto. Through six starts, Javier holds a 3.48 ERA with a 5.00 K/BB and remains a strong fantasy contributor as the Astros' second arm.

Javier did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing two runs on three hits and two walks over six innings during a 5-2 win over the Braves. He struck out 10.

Javier retired 10 straight batters, including seven strikeouts, before serving up a two-out, solo homer to Kevin Pillar in the bottom of the fifth. He got into trouble again in the sixth and another run game around to score, but the right-hander was let off the hook after Houston tied the game at 2-2 in the eighth. Javier's 10 strikeouts were a season high, and through five starts (28 innings), he has a 3.21 ERA with a 29:6 K:BB.

Javier (2-0) allowed one earned run on three hits and two walks while striking out five across five innings to earn the win Monday against the Blue Jays.

Javier was handed a 7-0 lead after one inning, but he still needed 97 pitches to complete five innings of work. The only damage against him came on a solo home run by Matt Chapman in the fourth inning, and he otherwise relied primarily on strikeouts and flyouts to complete his outing. Javier has a fine 3.68 ERA through four starts, though he's only accrued 22 innings in that span while maintaining a mediocre 20.9 percent strikeout rate.

Javier did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing four runs on five hits and one walk over six innings against the Pirates. He struck out three.

Javier gave up a pair of homers in the no-decision; a two-run blast to Jack Suwinski in the second and a solo blast to Ji-Man Choi. He also gave up a run on a sac fly in his final frame, and he needed to be bailed out late to not pick up the loss. Javier was impressive against the Tigers on Wednesday with six inning of one-run baseball, but was disappointing in this effort. His chance to rebound is scheduled for Monday against the Blue Jays.

Javier (1-0) earned the win Wednesday, allowing one run on five hits and zero walks over six innings in a 8-2 victory over the Tigers. He struck out five.

Javier's lone run was surrendered on a two-out, infield single by Nick Maton in the third inning. Other than that, he kept the bases relatively clear and cruised to his first win of the season. Through his first two starts, Javier has 11 strikeouts across 11 innings and has walked only one batter. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday's road matchup in Pittsburgh.

Javier allowed three runs on eight hits and a walk over five frames during Friday's win against the White Sox. He struck out six and did not factor in the decision.

The 26-year-old settled in after allowing an RBI double to Eloy Jimenez in the first inning until Jimenez brought home another run as part of a two-run sixth. Javier forced 19 whiffs, including 10 with his fastball. He was in line to take the loss before his offense took over late in the game. Javier is lined up for a solid matchup against the Tigers at home next week.

Javier is likely to start Friday against the White Sox in the Astros' second game of the regular season, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

Framber Valdez is expected to start on Opening Day, though that has yet to officially be announced. Javier appears to be next in line, and he shouldn't have any problems pitching deep into the game after throwing 5.2 innings Saturday against the Nationals in his Grapefruit League finale. He will enter the season looking to back his breakout 2022 campaign, during which he posted a 2.54 ERA and 0.95 WHIP across 148.2 innings.

Javier allowed three earned runs on five hits and one walk while striking out five across four innings in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Marlins.

Javier's line wasn't that impressive in his first official outing since returning from the World Baseball Classic. However, he managed to throw 76 total pitches, 51 of which went for strikes. Framber Valdez is likely to serve as the Astros' Opening Day starter, but Javier looks to be ready when he takes the mound for the first time during the 2023 regular season.

Javier signed a five-year, $64 million extension with the Astros on Friday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

This could be the first of many long-term deals under new Astros general manager Dana Brown, who has seemingly convinced owner Jim Crane that it's worth locking up certain key contributors. Javier, 25, flourished to a 2.54 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 194:52 K:BB in 148.2 regular-season innings with Houston in 2022. He then allowed just one earned run and racked up 16 strikeouts across 12.2 postseason frames. The contract runs through the 2027 campaign, securing all of Javier's arbitration-eligible seasons and what would have been his first two years of free agency.

Javier pitched six scoreless innings and earned the win during Wednesday's 5-0 win over the Phillies in Game 4 of the World Series, allowing zero hits and two walks while striking out nine.

Javier delivered the best postseason performance of his young career in Game 3, keeping the Phillies hitless through six outstanding innings. Javier was removed after the sixth inning with 97 total pitches, but the Houston bullpen would go on to complete the combined no-hitter, which was just the second no-hitter during the World Series in MLB history. The last World Series no-hitter was by Don Larson of the Yankees against the Dodgers in Game 5 of the 1956 World Series. The only flaw on the night for the 25-year-old was that both walks he allowed ended up stealing second base, but second base was as far as they went. Javier now has a 0.74 postseason ERA with 16 K's over 12.2 innings.

Javier will start Game 4 of the World Series against Philadelphia on Wednesday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

There were initial conversations that Javier wasn't a sure thing to start Game 4 if Monday's Game 3 were to be rained out, but after MLB confirmed Monday's postponement, the Astros were quick to confirm that Javier would toe the rubber Wednesday night in Game 4. He's set to face off against Aaron Nola in Philadelphia.

Javier isn't guaranteed to start Game 4 on Wednesday if a Monday rainout pushes Game 3 back to Tuesday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Those delays would line up Justin Verlander on regular rest for Wednesday's Game 4. Of course, Javier excelled against the Yankees in the ALCS and Manager Dusty Baker said he's "undecided" about who'd start. If Monday's Game 3 is played, Javier appears locked in to start Game 4 on Tuesday.

Javier pitched 5.1 scoreless innings and got the win during Saturday's 5-0 victory over the Yankees in Game 3 of the ALCS, allowing one hit and three walks while striking out five.

Javier had only made one appearance in the 2022 postseason, a 1.1-inning relief effort in the ALDS, but he was tasked with the start in Yankee Stadium for Game 3 and excelled. The 25-year-old came into the postseason with four consecutive scoreless outings of at least five innings, and he added another by limiting the powerful Yankees lineup to just one hit in 5.1 innings. Javier is having the best season of his three-year career -- compared to 2021, his ERA has dropped 1.01 and his K/BB has risen from 2.5 to 3.7.

Javier will start Game 3 of the ALCS against the Yankees on Saturday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Lance McCullers appeared to line up to start Game 3 in New York, but he'll instead pitch Game 4 on Sunday. It will be the first start of the postseason for Javier, who allowed one run over 1.1 innings out of the bullpen in his lone appearance during the ALDS against the Mariners. The right-hander didn't allow a run over his final four starts of the regular season, though he figures to have a reduced workload Saturday while making his first start since Oct. 1.

Javier (11-9) earned the win Saturday over the Rays, allowing two hits and two walks while striking out seven across six scoreless innings.

Javier was hot in the second half of September, and he kept it going into October with his fourth straight scoreless start. In that span, he's pitched 23 innings, allowing just six hits and six walks while striking out 29 in an absolutely dominant stretch that should solidify his spot in the Astros' playoff rotation. This was likely his last start of the regular season, and the 25-year-old ended the campaign with a 2.54 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 194:52 K:BB over 148.2 innings across 30 appearances (25 starts).

Javier allowed one hit over six scoreless innings against Baltimore on Sunday. He struck out eight and did not factor in the decision.

Javier retired the first 13 batters he faced and gave up just one single in the dominant outing. Unfortunately for him, the Astros didn't secure the win until the 11th inning, preventing him from improving to 11-9. Javier has now turned in three straight scoreless outings; he's produced a 22:4 K:BB through 17 innings and lowered his season ERA to 2.65 during that span. The 25-year-old righty is projected to make his final start of the season next weekend at home against the Rays.

Javier (10-9) earned the win Tuesday in Tampa Bay, striking out six in five shutout innings while allowing a hit and four walks.

Javier held the Rays hitless through the first 4.2 innings, scattering three walks. He was removed after the fifth inning having thrown 90 pitches -- 54 strikes. It was his second straight scoreless outing and the 11th consecutive start that he allowed three earned runs or fewer. He has a 1.86 ERA, 0.87 WHIP and 58:15 K:BB in 49.1 innings since the beginning of August. His next start will likely be in the middle of next week against Arizona.

Javier (9-9) allowed two hits and no walks while striking out eight across six shutout innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Tigers.

Javier dominated the Tigers throughout the start, racking up 14 swinging strikes across 90 total pitches. In 43.1 innings since Aug. 2, Javier has a 2.08 ERA with a 56:11 K:BB. Javier has surpassed his highest workload by over 30 frames, so the Astros could continue to look for a way to limit his pitches prior to the postseason. However, when on the mound, Javier has maintained an excellent 2.87 ERA and 173:46 K:BB across 131.2 innings for the campaign.

Javier allowed three runs (one earned) on four hits and two walks while striking out eight over 5.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Rangers on Wednesday.

Javier allowed a solo home run to Nathaniel Lowe in the first inning and got tagged for two more runs after a Jeremy Pena error in the third. Despite the early struggles, he still pitched into the sixth inning. Javier has been sharp throughout the year with a 3.01 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 165:46 K:BB through 125.2 innings across 26 appearances (21 starts). The right-hander lines up for a road start in Detroit next week.

Javier (8-9) allowed three earned runs on four hits and three walks while striking out seven across five innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Rangers.

Javier re-entered the rotation after appearing out of the bullpen during Houston's weekend series against Baltimore. He served up a two-run home run to Corey Seager in the opening frame but settled in to tally his nine consecutive appearance having allowed three or fewer earned runs. For the season, Javier owns a 3.07 ERA with a 157:44 K:BB across 120.1 frames.

Javier will start Wednesday's game against the Rangers, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Justin Verlander's (calf) absence suggested Javier would rejoin the starting rotation, and that's just the case. The righty allowed two runs across three innings in his only relief appearance after moving to the bullpen, yet he still boasts an impressive 2.97 ERA and 150:41 K:BB this season.

Javier won't make his scheduled turn through the rotation this weekend against the Orioles and will be available out of the bullpen, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports.

The Astros have two scheduled days off Monday and Thursday next week, and Javier will be the odd man out of the six-man rotation. The 25-year-old has a 2.88 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 146:40 K:BB across 112.1 innings this year, and he should be back in Houston's rotation before too long. Lance McCullers, Jose Urquidy and Justin Verlander will start this weekend versus Baltimore.

Javier allowed a run on two hits and a walk with eight strikeouts over six innings in a no-decision versus Atlanta on Saturday.

Javier's lone mistake was a solo home run to Vaughn Grissom in the fifth inning, which tied the game at 1-1. This was Javier's fourth straight quality start, but he's picked up just one win to go with two losses in that span despite allowing only four runs across 24 innings. The right-hander continues to pitch well with a 2.88 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 146:40 K:BB through 112.1 innings across 23 outings (19 starts) this year. He's projected for a home start versus the Orioles next weekend. Considering Javier's strong pitching of late, he appears to be safe as a starter even if the Astros opt to go down to a five-man rotation later in the year.

Javier (7-8) earned the win against Oakland on Sunday, allowing no runs on one hit while striking out six and walking three over six innings.

Javier was lights out in the contest, throwing 63 of 97 pitches for strikes across six frames and only allowing one hit. After reaching six or more innings four times in 16 starts prior to this month, Javier now has three such games in August alone. All three games, including Sunday's, have resulted in quality starts. The stellar outing improved Javier's ERA to 2.96, which he will take into his next appearance.

Javier (6-8) allowed a run on six hits and no walks while striking out four in six innings to take the loss Sunday against the Guardians.

Javier was effective during Sunday's outing, and the only run he gave up came via a solo homer in the bottom of the fifth inning. Although he picked up his second consecutive quality start, he was charged with the loss against Cleveland since the Astros' offense mustered just two hits. The right-hander has posted a 3.18 ERA in 17 innings over his last three outings but has been charged with losses in each of those starts. He tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Athletics next Sunday.

Javier (6-7) took the loss during Tuesday's 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Red Sox, allowing two runs on four hits and one walk with seven strikeouts in six innings.

Javier struck out the side in the first inning and faced the minimum through three frames, but was done in by Rafael Devers thereafter as Boston's third baseman knocked an RBI double in the fourth and connected on a solo shot in the sixth to saddle the 25-year-old with his second straight loss. Despite the 0-2 record, Javier has pitched to a solid 3.38 ERA in 16 innings across his last three starts and was able to induce an impressive 15 swinging strikes Tuesday. He tentatively lines up to take the hill again this week Sunday in Cleveland.

Javier (6-6) gave up three earned runs on five hits and one walk while striking out six over five innings to take the loss in a 4-2 defeat to the Athletics on Wednesday.

Stephen Vogt and Stephen Piscotty took Javier deep on back-to-back solo shots in the second. The two home runs weren't enough for the Astros to overcome and Javier was handed his sixth loss of the season. Despite having a bit of trouble keeping the ball in the yard against the Athletics, the 25-year-old right-hander only allowed six baserunners and garnered 14 swinging strikes. Javier is putting together the best season of his young career and boasts an excellent 12.3 K/9 to go along with a 2.63 xERA. He is tentatively expected to make his next start Tuesday against the Red Sox.

Javier allowed one earned run on two hits and four walks while striking out three across five innings in the first game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Yankees. He did not factor into the decision.

Javier wasn't sharp, as only 57 of his 99 pitches went for strikes. He's now walked at least three batters in each of his last three starts, during which he's allowed nine earned runs across 13.2 frames. Despite the tough stretch, Javier still owns an excellent 3.13 ERA and 115:34 K:BB across 83.1 innings for the campaign.

Javier (6-5) allowed three runs on five hits and three walks with 10 strikeouts in 3.2 innings, taking the loss Wednesday versus the Angels.

Javier recorded 10 of his 11 outs via strikeout, but the Angels made the most of his mistakes. Shohei Ohtani delivered the biggest hit off Javier, a two-run triple in the second inning that proved too much for the Astros to overcome. This was a second straight shaky start from the 25-year-old right-hander. He now owns a 3.22 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 112:30 K:BB across 78.1 innings in 17 appearances (13 starts). Javier's spot in the Astros' six-man rotation is probably safe at least until Lance McCullers (forearm) is cleared to return.

Javier (6-4) took the loss against Kansas City on Wednesday, allowing five runs on four hits and three walks while striking out seven batters over five innings.

The Royals got to Javier early in the contest, belting three long balls and scoring four runs over the first two innings. The righty hurler gave up only one more run the rest of his outing, but the damage was too much for Houston's offense to overcome. Javier had allowed only five homers over 69.2 innings entering the contest, and he hadn't given up more than one in any of his 15 outings. He's had a few poor starts but has been very good overall, posting a 3.01 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 102:27 K:BB.

Javier (6-3) earned the win Friday, allowing one run on one hit and zero walks over seven innings in an 8-1 victory over the Angels. He struck out 14.

After throwing seven no-hit innings and fanning 13 against the Yankees last weekend, Javier followed up with a similarly dominant showing. He got 20 called strikes and 23 swinging strikes on 99 pitches. The right-hander just turned in perhaps the best two-start stretch of the Modern Era, and he now has a 2.58 ERA and 0.96 WHIP for the season (69.2 innings). Javier lines up for a home start against the Royals next week.

Javier (5-3) earned the win after he pitched seven no-hit innings, giving up one walk while striking out 13 in Saturday's victory over the Yankees.

Javier was masterful in this one, registering a season-high 13 punchouts while limiting the Yankees to just a walk in what ended up being a combined no-hitter for the Astros. The 25-year-old has now rattled off three straight strong starts following a five run blow up against the Mariners on June 6, posting a 1.50 ERA with 25 strikeouts over 18 innings during that stretch. He now owns a 2.73 ERA and 1.05 WHIP with 81 punchouts over 62.2 frames in 14 starts this season. Javier tentatively lines up to pitch again Friday against the Angels.

Javier (4-3) earned the win Sunday over the White Sox. He allowed a run on two hits, four walks and a hit batter with five strikeouts in five innings.

Javier kept the White Sox off the board until Luis Robert hit an RBI double in the fifth inning. The right-hander wasn't particularly efficient, needing 93 pitches (58 strikes) to complete five frames, but it was enough for his first win in his last four starts. Javier has a 3.07 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 68:23 K:BB across 55.2 innings overall. He's got a tough matchup on tap next weekend, he's expected to draw a road start versus the Yankees.

Javier allowed two runs on five hits and three walks over six innings in Monday's loss to Texas. He struck out seven and did not factor in the decision.

The only damage against Javier through the first six innings came during the third frame on Kole Calhoun's sacrifice fly. He was removed from the game after walking Brad Miller to begin the seventh and was charged with that run while Ryne Stanek was pitching. Javier now owns a 3.20 ERA with a 63:19 K:BB through 50.2 innings this season. He's walked eight batters while giving up eight runs over his last 13.2 frames. The 25-year-old is projected to face the White Sox at home this weekend.

Javier isn't listed as a starter for any of the Astros' three games with the Marlins this weekend and could be available out of the bullpen, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Entering the week, Javier lined up to start Sunday's series finale versus Miami, but the Astros will take advantage of Thursday's off day and use it to reorder the rotation. As a result, Justin Verlander, who started in Tuesday's win over the Marlins, will return to the mound Sunday on four days' rest for just the second time this season. Javier is now tentatively lined up to make his next start during next week's road series versus the Rangers.

Javier (3-3) took the loss against Seattle on Monday, pitching 3.2 innings and allowing five runs on six hits and one walk while striking out four.

Javier gave up six hits in the outing, and three went for extra bases. He surrendered a run on a single and a double in the first inning and was tagged for a three-run homer in the second. The Astros tied the score 4-4 with a big second frame, but Javier coughed up the lead in the fourth and was removed with two outs. The right-hander has given up two or fewer runs in nine of his 11 starts this season, but he's yielded 12 runs across 7.1 combined innings in his other two appearances. Javier will carry a 3.22 ERA into his next start, which is expected to come at home against Miami this weekend.

Javier allowed a run on four hits and four walks with four strikeouts over four innings in a no-decision versus the Athletics on Tuesday.

Javier wasn't efficient in this outing, throwing only 47 of 85 pitches for strikes. The four walks were a season high for the right-hander, but the Athletics were only able to scrape together a single run on a Cristian Pache RBI single. Javier owns a 2.41 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 52:15 K:BB across 41 innings in 10 appearances (six starts) this year. He'll look to pitch deeper in his next scheduled start, which is expected to be at home versus the Mariners next week.

Javier (3-2) earned the win over Cleveland on Wednesday, tossing 5.2 scoreless innings and allowing three hits and one walk while striking out nine.

Javier fanned nine batters -- a season high -- for the second straight game, and he racked up 20 swings-and-misses among his 96 pitches Wednesday. After working as a reliever at the beginning of the campaign, the right-hander has started in five of his past six outings and has performed well aside from a seven-run blowup in 3.2 innings against Washington on May 14. His recent big strikeout numbers have raised his fantasy appeal considerably and increased the likelihood that he'll remain a part of Houston's rotation even after Jake Odorizzi (leg) returns to action. Javier's next start is lined up to come in Oakland next week.

Javier (2-2) was saddled with the loss during Friday's 3-0 defeat at the hands of the Rangers, allowing one run on three hits and one walk with nine strikeouts in six innings.

Javier delivered his best start of 2022 with a 70 game score but it was spoiled by opposing starter Martin Perez's shutout. The 25-year-old posted season highs in innings (six), pitches (91) and strikeouts (nine) and rebounded nicely from a poor performance May 14 against Washington. Javier has been lights out with an 0.99 ERA when removing the Washington start and is making a strong bid to remain in the rotation once Jake Odorizzi returns from a leg injury. His next start is projected to come against Cleveland midweek.

Javier (2-1) allowed seven earned runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out five across 3.2 innings to take the loss Saturday against the Nationals.

Javier struggled for the entire outing, as he allowed at least one run in all but three of his four innings. The big blows came on a three-run home run by Yadiel Hernandez in third frame and a bases-clearing double by Nelson Cruz in the fourth. If there was a positive to pick out, Javier did manage to record 13 swinging strikes on 84 total pitches. While this was Javier's first time allowing more than two earned runs in an appearance, he has worked more than 3.2 innings only once due to his inconsistent role to begin the campaign. It appears that the team has settled on a six-man rotation for the time being, which would put Javier tentatively in line to pitch again Friday against Texas.

Javier will start Saturday against the Nationals, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

Javier followed Jake Odorizzi in his last outing, throwing three scoreless innings Sunday against the Tigers. Javier will have the chance to start in a traditional role Saturday, leaving the team's plans for Odorizzi unclear. Across 21.2 innings this season, Javier has maintained a 0.83 ERA and 0.78 WHIP with a 25:6 K:BB while working as both a starter and multi-inning reliever.

Javier was credited with a hold after striking out five and allowing no hits and a walk over three scoreless innings out of the bullpen Sunday in the Astros' 5-0 win over the Tigers.

After securing his second win of the season five days earlier when he delivered 5.1 scoreless innings in his start against the Mariners, Javier continued to aid fantasy managers' ratios in his second appearance of the week. He ended up piggybacking starter Jake Odorizzi, who worked the first five innings of the game. The Astros have an off day Monday, so the team will likely reorder its six-man rotation and move Javier to the back of the line. He projects to make his next start May 15 in Washington, unless the Astros opt to have Javier piggyback Odorizzi again.

Javier (2-0) got the win during Tuesday's 4-0 victory over Seattle, allowing two hits and two walks with four strikeouts in 5.1 scoreless innings.

Javier retired the first eight batters he faced though noticeably slowed down by permitting two baserunners in the fifth inning and one in the sixth that prompted his removal. The 25-year-old has improved his pitch count in each of his five appearances and has only allowed one run in 11.2 innings across three starts. The superb performance probably earned him another turn, likely to come next week against Minnesota.

Javier is scheduled to make his second start of the season Tuesday against the Mariners.

For the second week in a row, the Astros will roll out a six-man rotation featuring Javier, who earned another turn after limiting the Rangers to two runs on four hits and two walks over five innings in his first start April 27 in Arlington. The right-hander tossed 84 pitches in that outing, so he already looks to be stretched out for starting duty after opening the season in the bullpen.

Javier (1-0) allowed two runs on four hits and two walks over five innings Wednesday to earn the win over Texas. He struck out four.

The right-hander moved into the rotation after coming out of the bullpen in each of his first three appearances this season, but he was able to handle a sizeable workload of 84 pitches Wednesday. Javier struggled a bit with his control and surrendered his first two runs of the campaign, but he did enough to record his first victory. It's unclear if he'll remain in the rotation moving forward or return to a long-relief role.

Javier will start Wednesday's game against the Rangers, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

The 25-year-old has worked in long relief to begin the season, but he'll receive a starting opportunity after delivering 8.1 innings across his three appearances. Javier threw 55 pitches in his previous appearance, so he may be limited to about 70-80 pitches his first time through the rotation. Jake Odorizzi, who has struggled so far in 2022, is also scheduled to start versus Texas, so it appears manager Dusty Baker will employ a six-man rotation.

Javier tossed three shutout innings in relief, striking out five and hitting two batters in a 3-2 loss Wednesday in Arizona.

Javier made his second appearance of the year out of the bullpen for Houston. The 25-year-old has now struck out eight of the 17 batters he's faced this year. The Astros frequently used Javier for more than one inning in relief last season and appear to have the same plan for the beginning part of 2022.

Javier will begin the 2022 season in the bullpen, operating as a long-relief option, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Manager Dusty Baker said Monday that Javier will be a relief option to start the 2022 campaign, potentially making a spot start here and there. The 25-year-old mostly pitched out of the bullpen last season, appearing in 36 games while starting nine times. He'll look to build on his strong numbers from 2021 where he produced a 3.55 ERA and 1.18 WHIP while going 4-1 with two saves on four attempts and collecting five holds. Javier also excelled in strikeout department, finishing the year with a 11.5 K/9.

Javier (4-1) allowed one run on three hits and one walk while striking out six over 2.2 relief innings Monday to pick up the win over Texas.

Javier came in for starter Jake Odorizzi, who was removed after 1.1 innings with a foot injury sustained while covering first base. By that time, Houston had built a 7-0 lead, and Javier just needed to get outs. Long relief is familiar to Javier, who has served as a starter earlier this season before moving to the bullpen in a multi-inning role.

Javier was credited with the save Thursday against the Royals after tossing a scoreless inning.

Javier entered the game with a three-run cushion after the Astros scored three runs in the top of the 10th, and he didn't have problems retiring the side in order even if he didn't record a single strikeout. The right-hander has given up runs in three of his last six outings, however, and he's been lacking a bit of consistency of late. Still, he owns a 1.98 ERA -- although with a 1.54 WHIP and a 5.9 BB/9 -- through 13.2 innings since the All-Star break.

Javier allowed a hit and a walk while striking out five over three scoreless relief innings in Saturday's 1-0 loss to the Yankees.

Starter Zack Greinke was removed after four innings with shoulder soreness, at which point Javier took the mound. The 24-year-old was excellent in a bulk relief role. He had given up four runs in 9.1 innings across his six previous outings prior to Saturday's multi-inning assignment. Javier began the year in the rotation, but he's since shifted to a bullpen role that has seen him log a save, three holds and a blown save. If Greinke ends up missing a start, Javier would be a natural option as a spot starter. He's posted a 3.00 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 89:35 K:BB across 72 innings.

Javier pitched four scoreless innings of one-hit ball with three strikeouts to earn the save in Wednesday's 8-3 win over Boston.

The right-hander performed well in relief of Jake Odorizzi and spared the bullpen at the same time to earn a rare four-inning save. Javier opened the season as a starter, but his last three appearances have been in relief after Houston got some starters back from injury at the end of May. This was Javier's first career save. He's added a 3.02 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 71:26 K:BB across 59.2 innings this year. He'll be a leading candidate to re-enter the rotation should injuries arise, but he won't carry much fantasy value in a bulk relief role.

Javier allowed one run on two hits and two walks while striking out four over four relief innings in Friday's 10-3 extra-innings loss to the Padres.

Javier is the odd-man out of the rotation after Framber Valdez and Jake Odorizzi were activated off the injured list. This was Javier's first appearance out of the bullpen and an encouraging one at that. Houston's bullpen, outside of closer Ryan Pressly, has not performed well this season.

Astros manager Dusty Baker said Wednesday that Javier would be moved to the bullpen, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports.

Though Lance McCullers (shoulder) was moved to the 10-day injured list Wednesday, the Astros are expected to return two starters (Framber Valdez and Jake Odorizzi) from the IL this weekend, and another on Monday (Jose Urquidy). Those reinforcements leave no room in the rotation for Javier, whose move to the bullpen was likely sealed after he issued a season-high six walks in 4.2 innings during his last start Sunday against the Rangers. The 24-year-old is probably overqualified for a long-relief role, so if the Astros can't find consistent, high-leverage work for him, Javier could be headed for Triple-A Sugar Land in the near future in order to pick up regular starts.

Javier allowed one run on one hit and six walks across 4.2 innings in Sunday's loss to Texas. He struck out five and did not factor in the decision.

Javier walked a career-high six batters and, fittingly, the only run to score on him came on a bases-loaded walk by Brooks Raley after Javier was lifted from the game. Despite throwing just 50 of 94 pitches for strikes, the 24-year-old righty lowered his season ERA to 3.14 alongside a 58:21 K:BB through 48.2 innings. He's lined up to face the red-hot Padres at home next weekend.

Javier allowed three runs on five hits and one walk while striking out nine in a no-decision in a loss to Oakland on Tuesday.

Javier worked around three solo home runs and left with the game tied after six innings. The right-hander works up in the zone, so there are potential for flyballs and homers. It's surprising he didn't allow any long balls in four April starts, but it's all catching up to him now. Javier's allowed seven HRs in 23.1 innings over four May starts. His next start is expected to be Sunday on the road against Texas.

Javier took a no-decision during Thursday's win over the Rangers, allowing three runs on four hits and a pair of walks while striking out six over seven innings.

Javier gave up a run over each of his first three innings of work, including a solo homer to Willie Cahoun in the first. From there, the 24-year-old found his groove, blanking the Rangers the rest of the way while throwing 59 of his 99 pitches for strikes in the process. It was a promising bounce-back outing following two labored starts for Javier, during which he gave up a total of eight runs, including three homers. The righty, who has compiled a 3.08 ERA and 0.97 WHIP on the season, lines up to take on the A's in Oakland on Wednesday.

Javier (3-1) allowed five earned runs on four hits and four walks while striking out eight across 5.1 innings Saturday, taking the loss to the Blue Jays.

Javier served up multiple home runs for the first time this season. His five runs allowed Saturday matched his previous season total through 25.2 innings. The 24-year-old has a 7.13 ERA in 10.1 innings over his last two outings versus a 0.87 ERA in 20.2 innings over his first four starts. In addition, his eight walks are a season high for him. His high-strikeouts totals are consistent though, supporting a 11.03 K/9. Javier will look to get back on track Thursday against Texas.

Javier allowed three runs on four hits and two walks over five innings in Sunday's loss to the Rays. He struck out four and did not factor in the decision.

Javier kept the Rays scoreless through four innings until serving up a three-run shot to Austin Meadows in the fifth. Houston took the lead in the top of the sixth so the 24-year-old was in line for a win before Tampa Bay came back against the bullpen. Javier still owns a terrific 1.75 ERA and 30:8 K:BB through 25.2 innings. He's lined up to face the Blue Jays at home next weekend.

Javier (3-0) pitched seven scoreless innings to earn the win over Seattle on Tuesday. He allowed two hits and three walks while striking out six.

The right-hander made things look easy again, allowing only a pair of hits -- both to Kyle Seager -- and preventing the Mariners from reaching third base. He completed seven innings for the first time in his career and stretched his streak of consecutive scoreless frames to 17. Javier's ERA now stands at a sterling 0.87 through 20.2 innings, and he has complemented that minuscule mark with a 26:6 K:BB. The second-year emerging star will look to continue his hot streak when he faces the Rays on the road Sunday.

Javier (2-0) earned the win Thursday after holding the Angels scoreless across five innings, giving up three hits and a walk while striking out nine.

Javier was lights out in his return to the rotation during a dominant performance against the Angels, recording a career-high nine strikeouts en route to the victory. Overall, the 24-year-old's pitch count was on the high side with 98 pitches--62 for strikes--to go with 21 swings and misses. Javier, making his first start in nearly two weeks due to Houston's light schedule, was recalled from Houston's alternate training site ahead of Thursday's game. The right-hander will look to carry his momentum into a Tuesday showdown against Seattle.

The Astros recalled Javier from their alternate training site ahead of his scheduled start Thursday against the Angels, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

Javier will be making his first start in nearly two weeks after Houston's light schedule had allowed it to get by with a four-man rotation of late. Per McTaggart, Javier has kept his arm conditioned for starting duty while at the alternate site, with manager Dusty Baker indicating that the right-hander is ready to throw up to 100 pitches Thursday, if necessary. With that in mind, Javier shouldn't face any major restrictions as he rejoins Houston's rotation.

The Astros will recall Javier from their alternate site to start Thursday's series opener versus the Angels in Houston, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Houston sent Javier back to the alternate site April 10, but that was a byproduct of the team's light schedule over the past two weeks rather than the result of any dissatisfaction with the right-hander's performance through his first two starts of the season. With Houston's next off day not coming until May 3, the club will transition back to a five-man rotation featuring Javier, Zack Greinke, Jake Odorizzi, Lance McCullers and Jose Urquidy.

Javier was optioned to the alternate training site after Saturday's loss to the A's, Julia Morales of AT&T SportsNet Southwest reports.

The right-hander delivered five scoreless frames in his second start of the season Thursday, but he'll head to the alternate site since the Astros have three scheduled off days in the next nine days. Javier should remain built up as a starter and could rejoin the rotation during the series against the Angels, which begins April 22.

Javier (1-0) shut out the Athletics, allowing three hits while striking out seven and walking two over seven innings in Thursday's victory.

The righty was much sharper than he was in his debut, throwing 57 of his 88 pitches for strikes. The 24-year-old recorded a 3.48 ERA in his rookie campaign as he looks to build on it in 2021. His next opportunity to start comes on Tuesday against the Tigers.

Javier allowed two runs on three hits while striking out four over 3.2 innings in Friday's 9-5 win over the Athletics.

Javier cruised through the first three innings on just 39 pitches but needed 38 to get two outs before manager Dusty Baker pulled him in the fourth. In 2020, Oakland carved up the young right-hander, who earned third place in Rookie of the Year voting. The A's plated seven runs against Javier in eight innings last year, while he had a 2.72 ERA against all other teams.

Javier threw 70 pitches over 5.1 innings in a "B" game against the Marlins on Sunday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

Javier, who missed a week of preparation during spring training due to health and safety protocols, is preparing to start the second game of the regular season. He's behind other starters, but Sunday's outing puts Javier in range to throw five-plus innings against the Athletics on Friday, which potentially qualifies him for a win.

Javier will start the second game of the regular season, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Astros manager Dusty Baker named the first four starters of the regular season and has Javier following Opening Day starter Zack Greinke. Javier's start will likely involve heavy bullpen-management, as the right-hander's preseason buildup was impacted by a week-long absence due to issues related to COVID-19. He's thrown just three innings during Grapefruit League play. That means someone like Brandon Bielak or Bryan Abreu could be asked to pitch multiple innings that day.

Javier allowed one walk over a scoreless inning in Sunday's spring game against the Nationals.

This was the first game action since March 3 for Javier, who was away from camp on health and safety protocols. He's expected to be part of the starting rotation and feels there's enough time to get ready for the regular season, per Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. With 17 days remaining before Opening Day, Javier could get three more outings to build pitch counts and innings.

Javier (COVID-19 health and safety protocols) returned to the Astros' spring-training complex Thursday and completed a bullpen session, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Javier was one of several Houston players that was forced to self-isolate last week due to COVID-19 protocols, but only reliever Pedro Baez is believed to have tested positive for the virus. With the right-hander now back in camp less than a week after entering the protocol, he should still be on track to clinch a spot in Houston's Opening Day rotation. Javier may find himself a few days behind his fellow starters in the build-up process, however.

Manager Dusty Baker said Friday that Javier is out due to health and safety protocols, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

Javier is on track to break camp with a spot in the Astros' rotation, but his preparation will be thrown off at least to some degree until he is cleared to resume team activities.

Javier allowed one hit and one walk while striking out two over two scoreless innings in Tuesday's spring game against the Mets.

Javier followed starter Framber Valdez in the game, but he's expected to be a rotation member in 2021. The advanced metrics indicate the right-hander may have overachieved as a rookie in 2020 -- he finished third in Rookie of the Year balloting -- but he's earned the shot to be a starter this year. Javier's challenge will be to increase last year's workload of 54.1 innings. He's never thrown more than 113.2 innings in a season.

Javier (5-2) picked up the win Thursday after holding the Rangers to three runs on five hits and a walk while striking out six across 5.2 innings.

Javier blanked the Rangers until the sixth inning when Willie Calhoun swatted a two-run home run. Following a wild pitch, the 23-year-old allowed a third run to score on a sacrifice fly to Rougned Odor, who would be his final batter of the night. Despite spending the majority of his rookie season as a starter, Javier is expected to move into the bullpen for the Wild Card Series. The right-hander finishes out the regular season with a 3.48 ERA and 0.99 WHIP across 12 appearances (10 starts).

Javier allowed two earned runs on four hits and a walk while striking out six across four innings Saturday against the Diamondbacks. He did not factor into the decision.

Javier had his strikeout pitch working, as he racked up 15 called strikes and 10 swinging strikes on 77 total pitches. That allowed him to rack up six punchouts, his highest mark in his past eight appearances. On the other hand, he was undone by leadoff hitters, as Kole Calhoun took him yard to open the second frame. The following inning, he allowed a leadoff double to Daulton Varsho who later came around to score -- accounting for Javier's other earned run. Javier has now maintained a 3.33 ERA with a 48:17 K:BB across 48.2 innings for the season. He'll line up to take his final start of the campaign Thursday at Texas.

Javier won't start during the two-game series against the Dodgers this weekend, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

The Astros will opt to readjust their starting rotation thanks to Friday's scheduled off day, putting Framber Valdez and Zack Greinke on the mound in Los Angeles. Javier has a 3.38 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 37:16 K:BB through 42.2 innings and should receive his next start sometime next week.

Javier (4-2) allowed two runs on three hits and three walks over five innings in a loss to the Athletics on Monday. He struck out three.

Javier allowed a pair of runs, including a Sean Murphy solo shot, in the second inning. With the Astros failing to score a run, it was enough to leave Javier with the loss. The 23-year-old right-hander now has a 3.38 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 37 strikeouts across 42.2 innings this year. He'll try to get back in the win column Sunday in a road start versus the Dodgers.

Javier (4-1) picked up the win Wednesday after holding the Rangers to one run on two hits and a pair of walks while striking out three across 6.2 innings.

Javier came out hot with a seven-pitch first inning and held the Rangers scoreless until the fourth, when he gave up a solo home run to Isiah Kiner-Falefa. It was the first right-handed base hit against his slider this year. Overall, the 23-year-old rookie tossed five clean innings en route to the longest outing of his career. Javier, who leads the Houston starters with four wins, will carry a 3.35 ERA and 0.96 WHIP into a Monday matchup at Oakland.

Javier (3-1) earned the win in Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Angels after allowing three runs on three hits over 5.2 innings. He had five strikeouts and two walks.

The 24-year-old started with four scoreless frames, but the Halos were able to bring across three runs over the fifth and sixth innings. Javier has a 3.77 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 31:11 K:BB through 31 innings and will look to continue his strong rookie campaign next week against the Rangers.

Javier allowed three earned runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out five across 3.2 innings Thursday against the Rockies. He did not factor into the decision.

Javier allowed nine baserunners in the short outing, but was ultimately burned by two home runs while pitching at Coors Field. He did still flash some deceptiveness, racking up 12 called strikes and nine swinging strikes across 78 pitches. Through five starts, Javier now has a 3.55 ERA with a 26:9 K:BB across 25.1 frames. He'll look to bounce back in his next outing, currently projected to come Tuesday against the Angels.

Javier (2-1) earned the win over Seattle on Saturday, pitching six scoreless innings and yielding one hit and three walks while striking out five.

Javier was wild in the outing -- he threw only 48 of 88 pitches for strikes and walked three batters -- but he made up for the lack of control by limiting Seattle to a single hit and no runs. The outcome is especially impressive considering the fact that Javier was behind hitters most of the night (he issued first-pitch strikes to only four of the 19 batters he faced) and induced a mere six swinging strikes. The rookie rebounded from his first rough start last Sunday against Oakland and has now allowed one or fewer earned runs in three of his first four career starts. He'll carry a 2.91 ERA, 0.83 WHIP and 21:7 K:BB into his next start, scheduled for Thursday at Colorado.

Javier (1-1) picked up his first MLB loss in Sunday's game against the Athletics. He allowed five runs on three hits and two walks while striking out five over three innings.

All three hits Javier allowed cleared the fence. Robbie Grossman took him deep for a solo home run in the second inning, then Matt Olson (three-run homer) and Matt Chapman (solo) finished Javier's day in the third. The rookie suffered his first road bump as a replacement for Justin Verlander; he had pitched into the sixth inning in each of his previous two starts. Javier's next start comes Saturday at home against Seattle.

Javier (1-0) allowed one run on four hits and one walk while striking out two to earn his first win in Tuesday's 8-2 win over Arizona.

Javier was good enough for a second straight start after he held the Dodgers' potent offense in check in his first start. He didn't have his best stuff Tuesday, but he had the composure to work through it. The right-hander also had Houston's potent offense behind him, which can help a young pitcher like Javier, who has taken over Justin Verlander's spot in the rotation. He's next scheduled to take the mound Sunday on the road against Oakland.

Javier allowed one run on two hits and one walk while striking out eight over 5.2 innings while taking a no-decision in a 4-2 extra-innings loss to the Dodgers.

Javier was tapped as the fill-in starter for the injured Justin Verlander (forearm) and turned in an effort worthy of the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner. Unfortunately, Houston's batters failed to support the rookie who has two innings of experience above Double-A. The right-hander's next start is expected Tuesday on the road against the Diamondbacks.

Manager Dusty Baker confirmed that Javier would start Wednesday's game against the Dodgers, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Prior to Tuesday's 5-2 loss to the Dodgers, Baker stopped short of locking Javier in to start the series finale, but the rookie will now get the ball Wednesday after he wasn't needed out of the bullpen a day earlier. Javier will face the unenviable task of filling in for ace Justin Verlander (forearm) in what will mark the 23-year-old's first MLB start. Javier split time between the High-A, Double-A and Triple-A levels in 2019, posting a sparkling 1.74 ERA and 0.97 WHIP to go with a 170:59 K:BB in 113.2 innings. Though he had been stretched out to start in summer camp, expect Javier to be capped at around five innings Wednesday.

Javier will start Wednesday' game against the Dodgers unless he's needed in relief Tuesday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

The Astros have a hole in their rotation following Justin Verlander's forearm strain, as they're also without Jose Urquidy (undisclosed) and Austin Pruitt (elbow). Javier is expected to get the first crack at the job, though that can't be confirmed until after Tuesday's contest. Javier has thrown just 12 innings above the Double-A level, including an inning of relief this season, though his 1.74 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 37.3 percent strikeout rate in 113.2 innings split across the three highest levels of the minors last season are all encouraging numbers. He did walk 12.9 percent of opposing batters, though, so he's hardly a finished product.

Javier is viewed as a potential candidate to take Justin Verlander's (forearm) spot in the rotation when a new fifth starter is first needed Wednesday against the Dodgers, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

Javier made the Astros' Opening Day roster as a member of the bullpen, but he had been stretched out as a starter during summer camp. Since he only covered one scoreless frame out of the bullpen in Saturday's win over the Mariners, he should be sufficiently rested and ready to handle the bulk of the innings Wednesday, if he's chosen to replace Verlander. McTaggart also notes that fellow long reliever Cy Sneed and top pitching prospect Forrest Whitley are other candidates to replace Verlander.

Javier earned a spot on Houston's 30-man roster, Julia Morales of AT&T SportsNet Southwest reports.

With Framber Valdez working as Houston's fifth starter, Javier will assume a spot in the team's Opening Day bullpen. The talented young right-hander has appeared in just two games above Double-A, so he figures to start out in a lower-leverage role.

Javier allowed one run on six hits over five innings in Sunday's intrasquad game, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. He threw 51 of 77 pitches for strikes.

Javier may still be in the mix for the rotation but may have sealed a spot on the staff to start the season with Sunday's effort. Houston manager Dusty Baker has yet to name a fifth starter, though Framber Valdez appears to the likely choice. "It will probably go down to the wire," Baker said. "We don't want to commit right now. We don't want the guys to stop working or get down. We've talked about it, but we can't say right now." Javier, who has two games worth of experience above Double-A, could land on the active roster considering how thin the Astros bullpen has become due to injuries.

Javier could make the Opening Day roster, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports.

The Astros' pitching staff has been hit hard by injuries and absences from camp, and with Javier already on the 40-man roster and fairly accomplished in the upper levels of the minors, he is a natural candidate to step into an early-season role. Javier lacks a plus offspeed pitch or premium velocity, but he has never failed in the minors (2.22 ERA, 1.03 WHIP in 377 career innings) and he had a 1.74 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 170:59 K:BB in 113.2 innings across three levels in 2019. His top pitch is a low-90s "invisiball" that is incredibly deceptive from his low three-quarters arm slot. He projects as a solid No. 4 starter and could be used as a swing man or long reliever in 2020.

Javier was optioned to minor-league camp, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

The 22-year-old was added to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft in November, and he's set to begin another season in the minors. Javier made his way to Triple-A Round Rock by the end of 2019 and had allowed only two runs with a 16:4 K:BB over 11 innings.

Javier will start Houston's Grapefruit League opener Saturday against the Nationals, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports.

Javier will get the ball first for the Astros this spring, with Framber Valdez set to follow him Sunday. The 22-year-old Javier was added to Houston's 40-man roster this offseason in order to protect him from the Rule 5 draft. He notched a 1.74 ERA and 37.3 percent strikeout rate in 113.2 innings across the three highest levels of the minors in 2019, though only 11 of those innings came at the Triple-A level.