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In 2022, Cristian Javier pitched six no-hit innings in Game 4 of the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, giving the Houston Astros the momentum they needed to turn the series around and win it all in Game 6. Unfortunately, his career has taken a tragic turn since that heroic appearance, and his first three starts of the 2026 MLB season have been putrid, for a lack of a better term.
Javier has lost his spark in 2026
In his first three starts of the season, Javier has pitched a total of 9.1 innings while giving up 13 earned runs. His control has been nonexistent so far, as he’s also given up nine walks. Javier isn’t getting hitters out via the strikeout either, as he’s only notched three so far.
And, to make matters worse, he exited his last start against the Colorado Rockies after only one inning with shoulder tightness.
Cristian Javier is leaving this game with a trainer before the second inning begins.
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) April 8, 2026Javier hasn’t had the easiest time when it comes to injuries. In 2024, he underwent Tommy John surgery, keeping him out for the rest of that season and the majority of 2025.
Since then, his fastball, which was considered one of the best in the league due to its ability to fall at a slower rate than the league average, hasn’t had the same effectiveness. According to Baseball Savant, hitters batted .500 against his fastball that he’s thrown 70 times so far.
Without having his signature pitch performing at an elite level, Javier has become much easier to hit. Now, his health is once again in limbo, and it’s not impossible that Javier’s time with the Astros may be nearing its end.
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