Cristian Javier returns to starting role for Houston Astros against Arizona
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 3:54 AM
Last updated Sep 5, 2026
The Houston Astros have designated Cristian Javier to start the series opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Daikin Park. This return to a traditional starting role follows his recent appearance as a reliever behind an opener against the New York Mets. Javier has recorded a 6.45 ERA over 13 appearances this season, eight of which were starts. Manager Joe Espada confirmed that Ronel Blanco remains available for relief work during the series. Ethan Pecko and Peter Lambert are scheduled to start the final two games of the set. The team continues a 13-game stretch without an off day, with the upcoming schedule providing more recovery time after Sunday.
- •Cristian Javier will start the series opener against the Diamondbacks.
- •Ethan Pecko and Peter Lambert are slated to start the final two games.
- •Manager Joe Espada noted that Ronel Blanco will be available in a relief role.
- •The Astros are currently playing 13 consecutive games without an off day.
- 3:54 AMYahoo Sports — Houston Astros stay hot, shut down Arizona Diamondbacks to take series opener
- 6:07 PMYahoo Sports — Houston Astros' Cristian Javier returns to starting role for series vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
"Cristian Javier had his best start in some time and the bullpen locked it down as Houston's early burst of offense held up for its fourth win in five games on the homestand.
"Cristian Javier, who'll start the series opener, has had his issues when facing lineups for a second turn through the order.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 5, 2026, 3:54 AMHouston Astros stay hot, shut down Arizona Diamondbacks to take series opener
Cristian Javier had his best start in some time and the bullpen locked it down as Houston's early burst of offense held up for its fourth win in five games on the homestand.
- Yahoo SportsSep 3, 2026, 6:07 PMHouston Astros' Cristian Javier returns to starting role for series vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
Cristian Javier, who'll start the series opener, has had his issues when facing lineups for a second turn through the order.
Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
MLB•Oct 20, 2026, 11:42 PMMilwaukee Brewers executive Matt Kleine emerging as candidate for Houston Astros' GM job
MLB•Oct 20, 2026, 10:56 PMGuardians in serious trouble as Rays move one win away from World Series
MLB•Oct 20, 2026, 10:18 PMYankees lose key coach to American League rivals
MLB•Oct 20, 2026, 10:07 PMRays Punch Their Ticket to the World Series With 7-3 Win Over Guardians!
MLB•Oct 20, 2026, 9:50 PMLeaked video from Houston Sports Hall of Fame event shows Astros GM candidate- MLB•Oct 20, 2026, 8:11 PMPirates have 'no-brainer' offseason decision to make with Brandon Lowe
