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Astros face pitching challenges ahead of critical Game 162

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 5:57 AM

Last updated Sep 25, 2026

Astros face pitching challenges ahead of critical Game 162

Summary

As the Houston Astros prepare for their final week of the regular season, they control their destiny in the American League West. Currently, they have three games remaining, starting with Hunter Brown on the mound against West Sacramento. Cristian Javier was placed on the injured list following a groin injury, creating uncertainty for the team's rotation. Options to pitch in Game 162 include Ethan Pecko, Miguel Ullola, and Ronel Blanco, with Mike Burrows and Bryce Mayer also considered for potential starts. This situation arises as the Astros aim for a postseason push, while they may also explore more unconventional options like former players Lance McCullers Jr. or Justin Verlander.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Astros have three games left to decide AL West fate.
•Hunter Brown starts Friday’s game; Javier is on the injured list.
•Ethan Pecko and Miguel Ullola are among candidates for Game 162.
•Unconventional options include Lance McCullers Jr. and Justin Verlander.
•Astros currently have won two of three games this week.

Latest Updates

5:57 AMYahoo Sports — Who on Earth Could Start Game 162 for the Astros?

What they're saying

"
There are three games remaining in the 2026 regular season, and somehow the Astros control their own destiny in the American League West. The Astros have won two of three games this week despite not having a starting pitcher complete three innings. Hunter Brown will start Friday’s game in West Sacramento, with Hayden Wesneski likely […]
— Yahoo Sports

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