Cristian Javier's fastball recovery crucial for Astros after injury
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 12:30 AM
Last updated Jun 20, 2026
Cristian Javier is set to return to MLB action following a lengthy rehabilitation after Tommy John surgery. The Astros expect his fastball to regain its pre-injury effectiveness, which was largely due to its significant vertical break. Javier's fastball velocity has dropped since his surgery, with current metrics showing a decline in its effectiveness. He will complete his final rehab start this Sunday, where his performance will be closely monitored by the team.
- •Javier has struggled since his 2024 elbow injury requiring surgery.
- •His fastball's vertical break has decreased from 18.5 inches to 16.8 inches.
- •Javier's return marks a key moment for the Astros in their current season.
- •He will make his final rehab start this Sunday.
- 12:30 AMYahoo Sports — The Astros need Cristian Javier’s fastball to return strong from injury
"Can Cristian Javier recover what made him special just a few years ago?
Sources
External linksOriginal 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 18, 2026, 1:49 PMYankees Should Consider Replacing Ryan McMahon With This Free Agent
MLB•Oct 18, 2026, 1:03 PMThe Astros' horrible, long-forgotten first stadium is finally getting its due
MLB•Oct 18, 2026, 11:24 AMBrewers slugger Jake Bauers wins NLCS MVP award against hometown Dodgers
MLB•Oct 18, 2026, 10:30 AMPhillies Send ‘Will Be Missed’ Alec Bohm Message Before Free Agent Exit
MLB•Oct 18, 2026, 9:08 AM23rd Annual Calusa Blueway Fishing Tournament returns
MLB•Oct 18, 2026, 5:17 AMCleveland Guardians Stephen Vogt Continues His Winning Managerial Path