The Houston Astros will be getting back a top-end starting pitcher sooner rather than later.

Per Chandler Rome of The Athletic, right-hander Cristian Javier will begin a rehab assignment with the Astros’ Florida Complex League affiliate on Saturday. 

Javier is recovering from Tommy John surgery, and has been out since May 2024. Now, after 12 months of recovery, Javier is closer than ever to returning to the mound.

Prior to his injury, Javier was one of the Astros’ top-flight arms at the top of the rotation. In his career, Javier is 33-18 with a 3.59 ERA. He was instrumental to the team’s 2022 World Series championship run, pitching to an 11-9 record with a 2.54 ERA in the regular season, and a 2-0 record with a 0.71 ERA in three postseason starts. 

The Astros’ starting rotation has dealt with its fair share of injuries, but has survived thanks to Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown leading the way. Adding a healthy Javier to the mix will only make the Astros’ rotation even stronger. 

The Astros hold a comfortable six game lead in the AL West with their 55-39 record. With the All-Star break looming, the team will be looking for a strong second half as they solidify themselves as legitimate World Series contenders.