Cristian Javier
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2021Crushers2727611370170.117110171169265.34
2022Storm3600015057.05840296176.32
2023Storm25251931740224.01175665208142.25
2024Moose31316310110200.118710874196334.85
2025Neon00000000.0000000.00
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 19 2025Javier (elbow) threw a 20-pitch live batting practice session Thursday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier had been limited to bullpen sessions until Thursday, but his ability to face hitters is a milestone in his recovery. All reportedly went well, with manager Joe Espada reporting Javier hit 95 mph with his fastball.
Jun 18 2025Javier (elbow) will throw live batting practice Friday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier has been limited to throwing bullpens for the past month, most recently throwing 20 pitches during his mound session Monday, but he will finally get a chance to face live hitters Friday. The 28-year-old righty still isn't expected back for another couple of months after undergoing Tommy John surgery last June, though it's a significant step in the right direction. Once he gets a few rounds of live BP under his belt, the Astros will likely begin thinking about sending him out on a rehab assignment.
Jun 4 2025Javier (elbow) is throwing bullpen sessions but is not ready to face hitters, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier began throwing off a mound nearly a month ago as he continues to work his way back from Tommy John surgery, but he has yet to be cleared for live batting practice. The right-hander will not be an option for the Astros until after the All-Star break.
May 9 2025Javier (elbow) threw a 15-pitch bullpen session Friday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Friday marks the first time Javier has worked off a mound since undergoing Tommy John surgery last June. He still has a long road ahead of him before being cleared to rejoin the Astros' rotation, but his progress is encouraging and keeps him on track to return shortly after the All-Star break.
Apr 1 2025The Astros transferred Javier (elbow) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Tuesday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move frees up a spot on the 40-man roster for right-hander Nick Robertson, who was acquired via trade Tuesday. Javier's timetable for making his season debut won't change as a result of the transaction, as he is not expected to return until the second half of the season as he works his way back from Tommy John surgery.
Mar 27 2025The Astros placed Javier on the 15-day injured list Thursday due to recovery from right elbow UCL surgery, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's a procedural move, as Javier is not expected back until the second half of the season. He's a candidate to eventually shift to the 60-day IL if/when the Astros need to free a 40-man roster spot.
Jan 26 2025Javier (elbow) said during an Astros FanFest event Saturday that he's targeting to return from the injured list after the All-Star break, Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not exactly new information as GM Dana Brown provided a similar timeline, but it's notable that he remains on track nearly four months later. Javier underwent Tommy John surgery last June, so it would be a relatively quick recovery if he's able to return in July.
Oct 3 2024Astros general manager Dana Brown said Thursday that Javier (elbow) is projected to return in late July of next season, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's an ambitious timeline considering Javier underwent Tommy John surgery in June. Any projected timetable at this stage of rehab is approximate, but it does appear Brown expects Javier to have a good shot to contribute shortly after the All-Star break next season.
Jun 16 2024The Astros transferred Javier (elbow) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Sunday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move was merely a procedural one to free up a 40-man spot. Javier underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this month and will miss extended time, including perhaps all of the 2025 season. Right-handed reliever Luis Contreras was called up from Triple-A Sugar Land and will take Javier's spot on the 40-man roster.
Jun 4 2024Javier (forearm) is scheduled to undergo Tommy John surgery Thursday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander landed on the injured list in late May due to right forearm discomfort and is now set to miss the rest of the 2024 campaign. Javier will also be sidelined until at least the second half of 2025 as he rehabs from the surgery. It's been a rough week for Houston pitchers, as Jose Urquidy (elbow) is also in danger of needing the procedure.
May 27 2024The Astros placed Javier on the 15-day injured list Monday, retroactive to May 24, due to right forearm discomfort. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was scheduled for a bullpen session Sunday, but he was pulled after experiencing discomfort in his right forearm. He'll be sent for imaging Tuesday to determine the extent of the injury, per Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. With Javier on the IL, Hunter Brown will start Tuesday against the Mariners, while Justin Verlander and Spencer Arrighetti take the mound Wednesday and Thursday, respectively, per Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle. The Astros recalled right-hander Alex Speas from Triple-A Sugar Land in a corresponding move.
May 26 2024Javier is dealing with forearm discomfort and didn't throw his scheduled bullpen session Sunday, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Joe Espada said Javier is day-to-day, but the right-hander would appear to be at significant risk of missing his next turn through the rotation Tuesday in Seattle. Chandler Rome of The Athletic speculates Hunter Brown could start Tuesday on four days' rest, with Eric Lauer a possibility to be called up from Triple-A Sugar Land to fill Javier's turn in the rotation Wednesday.
May 22 2024Javier did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's win over the Angels, allowing four runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out one over four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier's night got started off on the wrong foot after surrendering a two-run blast to Luis Rengifo in the opening frame. The Angels then got to him for two more runs in the fourth on a trio of hits, which included an RBI-double from Zach Neto. It was a very discouraging performance after Javier put together his best start of the season his previous outing against the A's. After the game, he cited his struggles due to poor mechanics, though he's now given up 11 runs on 13 hits and seven walks while striking out just one batter in 5.1 innings in his two starts surrounding his gem against Oakland. The 27-year-old now owns a 3.89 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 27:19 K:BB in 34.2 innings and lines up to face Seattle next week.
May 17 2024Javier (3-1) earned the win over the Athletics on Wednesday, pitching six shutout innings while allowing two hits and one walk. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier came out firing Thursday, striking out five of the first eight batters he faced before finishing with a season-high eight punchouts on the night. The right-hander threw first-pitch strikes to only nine of the 21 batters he faced, but he also produced 15 whiffs as he cruised to his third win of the season. It was a nice return to form for Javier, who was shelled for seven runs in his first start after returning from the injured list a week ago. The quality start was his third of the campaign, while it also marked the second time this season he's allowed two or fewer hits in an outing.
May 11 2024Javier (2-1) took the loss against Detroit on Saturday, allowing seven runs on five hits and four walks with no strikeouts over 1.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was activated off the injured list Saturday to make his first start for the Astros since April 14, but the right-hander didn't look quite right in his return. In addition to getting knocked around for seven runs and throwing only 21 of 50 pitches for strikes, Chandler Rome of The Athletic notes that Javier's final two fastballs clocked in at 89.7 mph and 90.2 mph, well below this typical velocity. It's unclear whether his struggles Saturday are an indication that Javier isn't fully recovered from the neck issue that originally sidelined him or if he was simply rusty, but he's currently penciled in to make his next start at home against Oakland.
May 9 2024Javier (neck) will rejoin the Astros' rotation Saturday in Detroit, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier will have gone nearly a month in between starts for the Astros when he toes the rubber Saturday, having been sidelined with a neck problem. He's ready to roll now, though, following one rehab start with Double-A Corpus Christi which saw him allow three runs over 3.1 frames. Javier threw just 68 pitches in the outing, so he could be somewhat limited from a workload perspective against the Tigers.
May 7 2024Astros manager Joe Espada said Tuesday that Javier (neck) will return from the injured list this weekend to start against the Tigers, Julia Morales of AT&T SportsNet Southwest reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier will return this weekend after missing just under a month due to the neck issue, though it's unclear exactly which day he'll take the mound in Detroit. The 27-year-old threw 68 pitches over 3.1 frames in his lone rehab outing and may face some minor workload limitations in his first outing back with the Astros.
May 5 2024Astros GM Dana Brown said Sunday that the plan is to have Javier (neck) "back by at least the Detroit series" that begins Friday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander threw 68 pitches during his rehab start with Double-A Corpus Christi on Saturday, allowing three runs on three hits with three strikeouts and two walks. The Astros have already listed their probable starters for the three-game set against the Yankees this week, which sets up Javier to potentially pitch next weekend versus the Tigers.
May 4 2024Javier (neck) allowed three runs on three hits and two walks while striking out three across 3.1 innings in a rehab outing with Double-A Corpus Christi on Saturday, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The results weren't overly impressive, but it was otherwise a successful outing for Javier, as he was slated to throw roughly 65 pitches in the outing. Assuming no news of a setback emerges, he should rejoin the Astros' rotation at some point in the upcoming week.
May 3 2024Javier (neck) will throw four innings or roughly 60-to-65 pitches Saturday for Double-A Corpus Christi before potentially rejoining the big-league rotation, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Joe Espada said the hope is that Javier can rejoin Houston's rotation after this first rehab start, which would line him up to return either Thursday in New York or Friday in Detroit. He has been out since April 14 with neck discomfort.
May 2 2024Astros manager Joe Espada said Thursday that Javier (neck) will begin a rehab assignment over the weekend, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Espada didn't specify exactly when Javier's first rehab appearance will be, nor did he say how long the 27-year-old right-hander will remain in the minors. However, there had been speculation that Javier would be able to avoid a rehab assignment completely, so he may only need to make one start before returning to an Astros rotation that has already dealt with numerous injuries this season.
Apr 30 2024Javier (neck) could be activated from the injured list and start during Houston's weekend series against Seattle, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier threw a bullpen session Sunday and is expected to throw again either Wednesday or Thursday. That will likely determine his status for the weekend, though it appears that Javier will be able to avoid a rehab stint even if his absence extends later into May.
Apr 28 2024Javier (neck) threw a bullpen session Sunday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander landed on the injured list last Sunday with neck discomfort, but it's encouraging he's back on the mound a week later. Javier will be eligible to be activated during next weekend's three game series versus the Mariners, though it remains to be seen if he's game-ready at that point.
Apr 21 2024Javier (neck) was placed on the 15-day injured list Sunday, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was scheduled to start Sunday in Washington but was scratched with neck discomfort, and he'll be sidelined for at least the next couple weeks. The severity of the injury is unclear, so there's no official timeline for his return from the injured list. Houston has three scheduled off days before the end of April and can get by with a four-man rotation in the short term.
Apr 14 2024Javier (2-0) allowed two runs on five hits and two walks to earn the win Sunday over the Rangers. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier needed just 89 pitches to complete seven innings, throwing 62 for strikes to earn the win in his longest outing of the season. Javier's command had been a bit shaky going into Sunday's outing, walking eight batters over 10.1 innings during his previous two starts. However, he's provided a much-needed boost to the short-handed Astros rotation, allowing just four earned runs for a 1.54 ERA over his first four starts spanning 23.1 innings. He'll have a chance to improve upon those numbers even further in his next start as he's tentatively slated for a weekend matchup against the Nationals in Washington.
Apr 9 2024Javier pitched 5.1 innings, allowing three runs (two earned) on five hits and three walks while striking out four batters in Tuesday's 4-3 extra-inning loss to the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was able to extend his scoreless streak to 15 innings to open the 2024 campaign, blanking the Royals through four frames Tuesday. The right-hander ran into trouble in the bottom of the fifth inning, surrendering a two-out two-run triple to Bobby Witt before another unearned run came around to score later in the frame. Through three starts, Javier has produced a 1.10 ERA and 1.16 WHIP with 13 strikeouts over 16.1 innings. He's tentatively set to return to the mound Sunday at home versus the Rangers.
Apr 4 2024Javier (1-0) earned the win over Toronto on Wednesday, allowing one hit and issuing five walks while striking out three batters over five scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier threw only 51 of his 97 pitches for strikes and issued five free passes, but he kept the Blue Jays off the scoreboard by allowing just one hit. It was the second straight scoreless outing for the right-hander, who tossed six shutout frames against the Yankees in his 2024 debut March 29. Javier isn't likely to have this level of success with such poor control often, but he's getting the job done so far this season after struggling to a career-worst 4.56 ERA and 1.27 WHIP across 31 starts last year.
Mar 29 2024Javier allowed four hits and a walk over six shutout innings during Friday's loss to the Yankees. He struck out six and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Yankees only managed to put two runners in scoring position against Javier and he had no trouble working through it. The 27-year-old threw 56 of 90 pitches for strikes, though he only forced eight whiffs. Still, it was an impressive outing against a strong Yankees lineup after Javier posted a 4.56 ERA across 162 innings in 2023. He's currently lined up to face the Blue Jays at home next week.
Mar 17 2024Javier will start the second game of the regular season against the Yankees, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Justin Verlander (shoulder) will begin the season on the injured list, forcing each of Houston's pitchers to move one slot up in the rotation. That leaves Framber Valdez in line to start Opening Day with Javier to follow one game later. Javier will be looking to bounce back from a subpar 2023 campaign during which he posted a 4.56 ERA and 1.27 WHIP across 162 innings.
Mar 2 2024Javier allowed two stolen bases and was slow to the plate during his Grapefruit League outing Saturday against the Cardinals, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier pitched well in some regards, as he didn't allow a hit while striking out three and walking two across three scoreless innings of work. However, manager Joe Espada has prioritized limiting stolen bases this spring, which Javier struggled to do last season when he surrendered 22 swiped bags. If he continues to struggle in that area, opposing teams could get even more aggressive on the basepaths in 2024.
Feb 22 2024Javier told reporters Thursday that he lost 15 pounds over the offseason, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier believes the added weight last season contributed to his mechanical issues and inconsistency. His ERA went from 2.54 to 4.56 and strikeout rate from 33.2 percent to 23.1 percent year-over-year. Javier hopes that by trimming down over the winter he can better lock in his mechanics and get back to what made him a breakout performer in 2022.
Oct 16 2023Javier has been confirmed as the starting pitcher for Game 3 of the ALCS against the Rangers, Adam Spolane of Sports Radio 610 reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier will be tasked with helping his club dig out of an 0-2 hole after Houston dropped both games at Minute Maid Park. The right-hander struggled with his command and issued five free passes during Game 3 of the ALDS against the Twins (five walks), but he managed to toss five scoreless innings on just one hit allowed while fanning nine batters.
Oct 8 2023Javier will start Game 3 of the ALDS at Minnesota on Tuesday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Justin Verlander and Framber Valdez were chosen to start the first two games of the series, and Javier will take the mound for Houston's road opener of the playoffs. The right-hander posted a career-worst 4.56 ERA in 31 starts this season, though he finished the campaign on a strong note with six scoreless innings at Arizona last weekend.
Oct 1 2023Javier (10-5) yielded three hits and two walks over six shutout frames Sunday, striking out four and earning a win over Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier allowed just one extra-base hit and never found himself in much danger Sunday, cruising to his 10th victory. It was his first win since Aug. 21 and first scoreless appearance since June 15. Despite posting a 2.84 ERA through his first 12 starts, Javier ended the regular season with a disappointing 4.56 ERA through 162 innings. In 11 starts since the beginning of August, he recorded a 5.00 ERA.
Sep 26 2023Javier (9-5) allowed four runs (three earned) on three hits and three walks while striking out six over 4.2 innings to take the loss Tuesday versus the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was tagged for two runs in the third inning and two more before his exit in the fifth. This was his fourth straight outing of no more than five innings, and he's gone six starts without a win. The right-hander is at a 4.67 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 155:60 K:BB through 156 innings over 30 starts this season. Javier may not start again in the regular season since the Astros have just four games left, though he'd be available on regular rest by the last game of this weekend's series versus Arizona if Houston manages to secure a playoff spot before then.
Sep 20 2023Javier did not factor into the decision Wednesday, allowing a run on three hits and two walks over five innings in a 2-1 victory over the Orioles. He struck out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After allowing a run in the opening frame, Javier would rebound to blank the Orioles over his final four innings, matching a season high with 11 strikeouts. Though he's now gone three consecutive outings without a quality start, it was a positive performance from Javier, who'd struggled to a 6.28 ERA in his previous six starts (28.2 innings). Overall, the right-hander is 9-4 with a 4.64 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 149:57 K:BB across 29 starts (151.1 innings) this season. Javier's currently lined up to face the Mariners on the road early next week in what will likely be his final regular-season outing.
Sep 16 2023Javier (9-4) took the loss Friday, giving up three runs (two earned) on five hits and a walk over five innings as the Astros fell 4-2 to the Royals. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Single runs by Kansas City in the third, fourth and fifth innings -- the latter two on solo shots by Nelson Velazquez and Bobby Witt -- proved to be too much for the Houston offense to overcome, and Javier got the hook after 81 pitches (52 strikes). The right-hander has served up at least one homer in nine straight outings, a stretch in which he has a rough 5.68 ERA and 1.47 WHIP despite a 44:22 K:BB through 44.1 innings. Javier will try to get back on track in his next start, likely to come at home next week against the Orioles.
Sep 9 2023Javier allowed four runs on four hits and three walks while striking out five batters over four innings in a no-decision against San Diego on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier got through three frames without allowing a run before things fell apart in the fourth. In that inning, the right-hander surrendered four runs on three hits and a pair of walks, with a Jurickson Profar two-run homer being the big blow. Javier didn't return to the mound for the fifth, marking his second four-inning start over his past three contests. Walks have been an issue in both of those outings -- he issued six free passes Aug. 28 against Boston. Javier held a 2.90 ERA through his first 14 starts of the season, but that mark has jumped to 4.78 due to an ugly 7.27 ERA over his subsequent 13 appearances.
Sep 3 2023Javier (9-3) allowed three runs on four hits and struck out eight without walking a batter over six innings, taking the loss versus the Yankees on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier cruised through five innings, but he allowed three hits, including a two-run home run to Jasson Dominguez, in the sixth, which flipped the game around. This was a baseline quality start for Javier, his first such effort since July 28. The right-hander struggled to a 6.17 ERA and 16:16 K:BB over 23.1 innings in August. For the year, he's posted a 4.65 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 127:51 K:BB through 137.1 innings over 26 starts. Javier is projected for a home matchup versus the Padres next weekend.
Aug 28 2023Javier allowed four runs on six hits and six walks over four-plus innings in Monday's win over Boston. He struck out four and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier coughed up two runs in the first inning followed by Adam Duvall's two-run shot in the fifth. Over his last 11 starts, Javier has produced an unsightly 7.46 ERA and 43:32 K:BB. His season ERA has jumped to 4.66 across 131.1 innings. Javier's next outing is lined up to be on the road against the Rangers next week.
Aug 21 2023Javier (9-2) allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks over five innings Monday, striking out three and earning a win over Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't Javier's cleanest outing but he looked sharper after coughing up a three-run shot in the first inning. He produced a 2.90 ERA through 14 starts to begin the year but owns an ugly 7.33 ERA over his last 10 outings. He's now sporting a 4.52 ERA with a 115:45 K:BB through 127.1 frames. Javier's next outing is lined up to be in Detroit this weekend.
Aug 15 2023Javier did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing five runs (four earned) on six hits and a walk over 4.2 innings against the Marlins. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier hadn't allowed more than three runs in a start since July 3, pitching to a 4.44 ERA over his previous five outings. After holding the Marlins off the board in the first inning, the 26-year-old Javier allowed at least one run in each of his subsequent four innings before he was pulled in the fifth after throwing 95 pitches. Overall, Javier's 8-2 with a 4.49 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 112:42 K:BB across 23 starts (122.1 innings) this season. He'll look to bounce back in his next outing, currently scheduled for next week against Boston.
Aug 10 2023Javier (8-2) picked up the win in Wednesday's 8-2 victory over the Orioles, giving up two runs on four hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Incredibly, Javier's last win came all the way back on June 3, as over his prior nine starts he'd gone 0-1 with a 6.91 ERA and 1.56 WHIP. Homers have been his biggest concern of late, as the right-hander has served up nine in his last 34.2 innings -- including a two-run shot by Austin Hays on Wednesday -- but he was able to avoid any other damage in this one. Javier will attempt to put together an actual win streak in his next outing, likely to come early next week in Miami.
Aug 3 2023Javier did not factor into the decision Thursday, allowing three runs on four hits and three walks over 4.2 innings in a 4-3 loss to the Yankees. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was tagged for three runs on back-to-back homers in the first inning, though he'd ultimately settle down and blank the Yankees over his final 3.2 frames. Javier has pitched better of late, holding opponents to three runs or fewer in his last four outings, after struggling to a 9.14 ERA in his prior five starts. Overall, his ERA sits at 4.39 with a 1.21 WHIP and 107:38 K:BB across 21 starts (112.2 innings) this season. Javier's currently in line for a road matchup against the Orioles in his next start.
Aug 2 2023Astros manager Dusty Baker confirmed Wednesday that Javier will start Thursday's series opener at Yankee Stadium, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier has been getting an extra day of rest between his recent string of starts and the Astros can continue with that model as they prepare to welcome back Jose Urquidy (shoulder) and trade-deadline acquisition Justin Verlander. Hunter Brown will work Friday's game in New York and then Urquidy and Verlander should slot in Saturday and Sunday.
Jul 31 2023Javier will get pushed back an extra day and will likely take the ball Thursday at Yankee Stadium, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's unclear who the Astros will start Wednesday, but apparently they have been pleased with how Javier has responded to pitching with an extra day of rest, so this could be a theme going forward. Javier's worst start of the year came on normal rest July 3 at Texas and he has received at least an extra day of rest ahead of his three most recent starts, during which he has posted a 4.32 ERA and 1.08 WHIP while striking out 21 in 16.2 innings.
Jul 28 2023Javier did not factor into the decision Friday, allowing three runs on three hits and two walks over six innings in a 4-3 loss against Tampa Bay. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After handing out six free passes his last time out, Javier only issued two walks. However, the command issues were still prevalent in the form of three hit batsmen and a homer allowed. Javier started the season by going 7-1 with a 2.84 ERA and 0.99 WHIP over his first 12 starts (69.2 innings), but his performance has slipped considerably over the past two months. Despite his struggles, the Astros figure to keep him in the rotation, though they will have options with the impending return of Jose Urquidy (shoulder).
Jul 22 2023Javier (7-2) allowed two runs on one hit and six walks while striking out five over 5.2 innings, taking the loss Saturday versus the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier didn't give up a hit until the sixth inning. He put two on with two outs, but Phil Maton let three straight runners reach base and allowed two inherited runners to score, which was enough to leave Javier with the loss. It's been a rough stretch for Javier, who has given up 23 runs while walking 14 over his last 21.1 innings across five starts. The poor pitching has him up to a 4.32 ERA with a 1.22 WHIP and 94:33 K:BB through 102 innings overall. The right-hander is tentatively scheduled for a much tougher matchup at home versus Tampa Bay for his next start.
Jul 16 2023Javier did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks over five innings against the Angels. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier still didn't look his sharpest but it was a decent start to his second half. Over his previous three starts, he was tagged with 18 runs in just 10.2 innings. Javier had also turned in nine straight outings with five or fewer punchouts prior to Sunday's performance. He now owns a 4.39 ERA and an 89:27 K:BB through 96.1 frames. Javier's next start is lined up to be in Oakland.
Jul 13 2023Javier is slated to start Sunday's game against the Angels in Anaheim. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Javier surrendered 18 earned runs on 21 hits and six walks over 10.2 innings across his last three starts, the Astros elected to skip his final turn through the rotation prior to the All-Star break. The Astros are hoping that the extended rest allowed Javier to potentially address any mechanical flaws that may have affected his performance, as the team isn't ready to pull the plug on him as a starter in light of his strong track record for the majority of the last two seasons. Even with the recent rough patch, Javier still owns decent ratios (4.34 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 15.0 K-BB%) over his 17 starts in 2023.
Jul 5 2023Javier will not make another start before the All-Star break, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier's next turn would be Saturday, but he'll be held back until the second half. The Astros have not revealed any sort of injury for Javier, but rather this seems more designed to give him some extended rest given his struggles lately. Javier has put up a 15.19 ERA with a 6:6 K:BB over 10.2 innings covering his last three starts.
Jul 3 2023Javier did not factor into the decision Monday, allowing eight runs on nine hits over 4.1 innings against the Rangers. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier has now allowed 18 runs over his last three starts, failing to make it through five innings in each. After pitching to a 2.90 ERA through his first 14 starts, Javier's ERA's ballooned to 4.34 with a 1.22 WHIP and 82:25 K:BB through 17 starts (91.1 innings) this season. The 26-year-old right-hander will try to right the ship in his next outing, tentatively lined up for this weekend against the Mariners.
Jun 29 2023Javier did not factor into the decision Wednesday, allowing six runs on eight hits and one walk over four innings against the Cardinals. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After allowing four runs just once over his first 12 starts, Javier has now given up at least four in three of his last four appearances. During that stretch, he owns a 7.27 ERA and has more walks (nine) than strikeouts (six). Despite his recent struggles, Javier hasn't taken a loss since April 29 and continues to be bailed out by Houston's offense. As long as he's healthy, the right-hander should remain a prominent part of the Astros' rotation, and he'll look to get back on track in his next start, which is tentatively scheduled during a four-game set in Texas.
Jun 22 2023Javier didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 10-8 win over the Mets, surrendering four runs on four hits and five walks over 2.1 innings. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a brutal outing for the right-hander, who needed 82 pitches (45 strikes) to record seven outs and issued a career-high five free passes, but the Houston offense quickly bailed him out. Javier's ability to keep the ball in the park has been his saving grace lately -- he has a 13:11 K:BB over his last five starts and 24.1 innings, but just a 3.70 ERA thanks to serving up only one homer during that stretch. He'll try to get back on track in his next trip to the mound, which is likely to come next week in St. Louis.
Jun 15 2023Javier finished with a no-decision against Washington on Thursday despite pitching six scoreless frames. He allowed five hits and struck out two batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All five hits against Javier went for a single, and he didn't issue any free passes for the third time this season. However, Houston didn't give him any run support, resulting in his second straight no-decision. This was the first time on the campaign that Javier has tossed a scoreless outing, though it was eighth quality start over 14 appearances. His strikeouts have been down lately -- the right-hander has notched just two in each of his past two starts -- but Javier has been consistently effective overall, posting a 7-1 record, 2.90 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 76:19 K:BB over 80.2 innings.
Jun 10 2023Javier didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 10-9 extra-innings loss to the Guardians, giving up four runs on seven hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was one of the shakier outings this season for the right-hander, and only the second time in 13 starts he's allowed more than three runs, but Javier still exited the game with the Astros ahead 5-4. A wild finish that saw the Houston bullpen blow five separate late leads before Cleveland finally won in 14 innings made sure Javier's five-game win streak was snapped. He'll take a 3.13 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 74:19 K:BB through 74.2 innings into his next start, likely to come at home next weekend against the Reds.
Jun 3 2023Javier (7-1) earned the win over the Angels on Saturday, allowing one run on six hits and no walks while striking out five batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier notched just two victories through his first seven starts this season, but he's now reeled off five straight wins and is tied for second in MLB with seven victories overall. The right-hander notched his fifth quality start over his past six appearances with six solid innings Saturday, and he was pulled after 102 pitches with Houston comfortably ahead. Javier has been remarkably consistent this season, tossing at least five frames in all 12 of his starts and giving up more than three runs just once. His strikeout numbers have waned lately -- he has just 18 over his past 23 innings -- but that's a minor complaint given his continued excellence.
May 28 2023Javier (6-1) allowed a run on four hits and three walks while striking out three over five innings to earn the win Sunday over the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier gave up a leadoff home run to Ryan Noda in the first inning, but that was the extent of the Athletics' scoring. Despite the damage prevention, Javier was far from dominant -- he threw just 46 of 88 pitches for strikes, and the three walks were a season high. He's won four starts in a row and now has a 2.97 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 67:16 K:BB through 63.2 innings across 11 outings. The right-hander is lined up for a home start versus the Angels for his next outing.
May 22 2023Javier (5-1) earned the win over Milwaukee on Monday, allowing one run on four hits and one walk while striking out five batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier served up a second-inning solo homer to Rowdy Tellez, but that was the only run the Brewers could manage against him. Meanwhile, Houston pounded out 10 runs over the first six frames, allowing Javier to exit with a win comfortably in his grasp. The right-hander finished with his fourth straight quality start and sixth overall this season while lowering his ERA to 3.07. Javier has given up more than three earned runs just once across 10 starts.
May 17 2023Javier (4-1) allowed one earned run on two hits and two walks while striking out five across six innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier allowed a home run to Matt Mervis in the second inning but otherwise shut down the Cubs' offense. Though he didn't have his typical strikeout stuff, he still managed 10 swinging strikes on 88 total pitches. Javier now has four consecutive quality starts in his last five outings, maintaining a 2.93 ERA and 0.85 WHIP with a 40:8 K:BB across 30.2 frames in that span.
May 11 2023Javier (3-1) earned the win Wednesday, allowing two runs on three hits and one walk over six innings during a 5-4 win over the Angels. He struck out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier has completed at least five innings in each of his first eight starts and allowed fewer than three runs seven times during that stretch. The right-hander recorded a season-high 11 strikeouts Wednesday en route to his third win, marking the second time he's struck out double digits this year. Javier sports a 3.47 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 54:10 K:BB through 46.2 innings and will look to maintain his strong play during his next start, which is tentatively scheduled for a three-game set versus the Cubs.
May 6 2023Javier did not factor into the decision Friday, allowing three runs on three hits and two walks over seven innings against the Mariners. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier tossed seven innings for the first time this season. The right-hander has been a solid option all year, sporting a 1.06 WHIP and never giving up more than four runs in a start. The 26-year-old is tentatively slated to face the Angels in his next appearance.
Apr 29 2023Javier (2-1) took the loss Saturday, allowing three runs on seven hits and one walk over 5.2 innings against the Phillies. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier gave up more than five hits for the first time since March 31 while Nick Castellanos' solo homer in the fourth inning marked his fourth straight start allowing a long ball. Javier made matters worse after the Castellanos home run by giving up a double to Brandon Marsh and advancing him to third on a wild pitch where he'd eventually score on a sacrifice fly hit by J.T. Realmuto. Through six starts, Javier holds a 3.48 ERA with a 5.00 K/BB and remains a strong fantasy contributor as the Astros' second arm.
Apr 5 2023Javier (1-0) earned the win Wednesday, allowing one run on five hits and zero walks over six innings in a 8-2 victory over the Tigers. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier's lone run was surrendered on a two-out, infield single by Nick Maton in the third inning. Other than that, he kept the bases relatively clear and cruised to his first win of the season. Through his first two starts, Javier has 11 strikeouts across 11 innings and has walked only one batter. His next start lines up as a road matchup in Pittsburgh.
Mar 31 2023Javier allowed three runs on eight hits and a walk over five frames during Friday's win against the White Sox. He struck out six and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old settled in after allowing an RBI double to Eloy Jimenez in the first inning until Jimenez brought home another run as part of a two-run sixth. Javier forced 19 whiffs, including 10 with his fastball. He was in line to take the loss before his offense took over late in the game. Javier is lined up for a solid matchup against the Tigers at home next week.
Mar 25 2023Javier is likely to start Friday against the White Sox in the Astros' second game of the regular season, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Framber Valdez is expected to start on Opening Day, though that has yet to officially be announced. Javier appears to be next in line, and he shouldn't have any problems pitching deep into the game after throwing 5.2 innings Saturday against the Nationals in his Grapefruit League finale. He will enter the season looking to back his breakout 2022 campaign, during which he posted a 2.54 ERA and 0.95 WHIP across 148.2 innings.
Mar 20 2023Javier allowed three earned runs on five hits and one walk while striking out five across four innings in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier's line wasn't that impressive in his first official outing since returning from the World Baseball Classic. However, he managed to throw 76 total pitches, 51 of which went for strikes. Framber Valdez is likely to serve as the Astros' Opening Day starter, but Javier looks to be ready when he takes the mound for the first time during the 2023 regular season.
Feb 10 2023Javier signed a five-year, $64 million extension with the Astros on Friday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This could be the first of many long-term deals under new Astros general manager Dana Brown, who has seemingly convinced owner Jim Crane that it's worth locking up certain key contributors. Javier flourished with a 2.54 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 194:52 K:BB in 148.2 regular-season innings in 2022. The 25-year-old then allowed just one earned run and racked up 16 strikeouts across 12.2 postseason frames. His contract now runs through the 2027 campaign, securing all of Javier's arbitration-eligible seasons and what would have been his first two years of free agency.
Nov 2 2022Javier pitched six scoreless innings and earned the win during Wednesday's 5-0 win over the Phillies in Game 4 of the World Series, allowing zero hits and two walks while striking out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier delivered the best postseason performance of his young career in Game 3, keeping the Phillies hitless through six outstanding innings. Javier was removed after the sixth inning with 97 total pitches, but the Houston bullpen would go on to complete the combined no-hitter, which was just the second no-hitter during the World Series in MLB history. The last World Series no-hitter was by Don Larsen of the Yankees against the Dodgers in Game 5 of the 1956 World Series. The only flaw on the night for the 25-year-old was that both walks he allowed ended up stealing second base, but second base was as far as they went. Javier now has a 0.74 postseason ERA with 16 K's over 12.2 innings.
Oct 31 2022Javier will start Game 4 of the World Series against Philadelphia on Wednesday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: There were initial conversations that Javier wasn't a sure thing to start Game 4 if Monday's Game 3 were to be rained out, but after MLB confirmed Monday's postponement, the Astros were quick to confirm that Javier would toe the rubber Wednesday night in Game 4. He's set to face off against Aaron Nola in Philadelphia.
Oct 22 2022Javier pitched 5.1 scoreless innings and got the win during Saturday's 5-0 victory over the Yankees in Game 3 of the ALCS, allowing one hit and three walks while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier had only made one appearance in the 2022 postseason, a 1.1-inning relief effort in the ALDS, but he was tasked with the start in Yankee Stadium for Game 3 and excelled. The 25-year-old came into the postseason with four consecutive scoreless outings of at least five innings, and he added another by limiting the powerful Yankees lineup to just one hit in 5.1 innings. Javier is having the best season of his three-year career -- compared to 2021, his ERA has dropped 1.01 and his K/BB has risen from 2.5 to 3.7.
Oct 21 2022Javier will start Game 3 of the ALCS against the Yankees on Saturday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Lance McCullers appeared to be lined up to start Game 3 in New York, but he'll instead pitch Game 4 on Sunday. It will be the first start of the postseason for Javier, who allowed one run over 1.1 innings out of the bullpen in his lone appearance during the ALDS against the Mariners. The right-hander didn't allow a run over his final four starts of the regular season, though he figures to have a reduced workload Saturday while making his first start since Oct. 1.
Oct 1 2022Javier (11-9) earned the win Saturday over the Rays, allowing two hits and two walks while striking out seven across six scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was hot in the second half of September, and he kept it going into October with his fourth straight scoreless start. In that span, he's pitched 23 innings, allowing just six hits and six walks while striking out 29 in an absolutely dominant stretch that should solidify his spot in the Astros' playoff rotation. This was likely his last start of the regular season, and the 25-year-old ended the campaign with a 2.54 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 194:52 K:BB over 148.2 innings across 30 appearances (25 starts).
Sep 25 2022Javier allowed one hit over six scoreless innings against Baltimore on Sunday. He struck out eight and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier retired the first 13 batters he faced and gave up just one single in the dominant outing. Unfortunately for him, the Astros didn't secure the win until the 11th inning, preventing him from improving to 11-9. Javier has now turned in three straight scoreless outings; he's produced a 22:4 K:BB through 17 innings and lowered his season ERA to 2.65 during that span. The 25-year-old righty is projected to make his final start of the season next weekend at home against the Rays.
Sep 20 2022Javier (10-9) earned the win Tuesday in Tampa Bay, striking out six in five shutout innings while allowing a hit and four walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier held the Rays hitless through the first 4.2 innings, scattering three walks. He was removed after the fifth inning having thrown 90 pitches -- 54 strikes. It was his second straight scoreless outing and the 11th consecutive start that he allowed three earned runs or fewer. He has a 1.86 ERA, 0.87 WHIP and 58:15 K:BB in 49.1 innings since the beginning of August. His next start will likely be in the middle of next week against Arizona.
Sep 14 2022Javier (9-9) allowed two hits and no walks while striking out eight across six shutout innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier dominated the Tigers throughout the start, racking up 14 swinging strikes across 90 total pitches. In 43.1 innings since Aug. 2, Javier has a 2.08 ERA with a 56:11 K:BB. Javier has surpassed his highest workload by over 30 frames, so the Astros could continue to look for a way to limit his pitches prior to the postseason. However, when on the mound, Javier has maintained an excellent 2.87 ERA and 173:46 K:BB across 131.2 innings for the campaign.
Sep 7 2022Javier allowed three runs (one earned) on four hits and two walks while striking out eight over 5.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Rangers on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier allowed a solo home run to Nathaniel Lowe in the first inning and got tagged for two more runs after a Jeremy Pena error in the third. Despite the early struggles, he still pitched into the sixth inning. Javier has been sharp throughout the year with a 3.01 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 165:46 K:BB through 125.2 innings across 26 appearances (21 starts). The right-hander lines up for a road start in Detroit next week.
Aug 31 2022Javier (8-9) allowed three earned runs on four hits and three walks while striking out seven across five innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier re-entered the rotation after appearing out of the bullpen during Houston's weekend series against Baltimore. He served up a two-run home run to Corey Seager in the opening frame but settled in to tally his nine consecutive appearance having allowed three or fewer earned runs. For the season, Javier owns a 3.07 ERA with a 157:44 K:BB across 120.1 frames.
Aug 30 2022Javier will start Wednesday's game against the Rangers, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Justin Verlander's (calf) absence suggested Javier would rejoin the starting rotation, and that's just the case. The righty allowed two runs across three innings in his only relief appearance after moving to the bullpen, yet he still boasts an impressive 2.97 ERA and 150:41 K:BB this season.
Aug 25 2022Javier won't make his scheduled turn through the rotation this weekend against the Orioles and will be available out of the bullpen, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros have two scheduled days off Monday and Thursday next week, and Javier will be the odd man out of the six-man rotation. The 25-year-old has a 2.88 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 146:40 K:BB across 112.1 innings this year, and he should be back in Houston's rotation before too long. Lance McCullers, Jose Urquidy and Justin Verlander will start this weekend versus Baltimore.
Aug 20 2022Javier allowed a run on two hits and a walk with eight strikeouts over six innings in a no-decision versus Atlanta on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier's lone mistake was a solo home run to Vaughn Grissom in the fifth inning, which tied the game at 1-1. This was Javier's fourth straight quality start, but he's picked up just one win to go with two losses in that span despite allowing only four runs across 24 innings. The right-hander continues to pitch well with a 2.88 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 146:40 K:BB through 112.1 innings across 23 outings (19 starts) this year. He's projected for a home start versus the Orioles next weekend. Considering Javier's strong pitching of late, he appears to be safe as a starter even if the Astros opt to go down to a five-man rotation later in the year.
Aug 15 2022Javier (7-8) earned the win against Oakland on Sunday, allowing no runs on one hit while striking out six and walking three over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was lights out in the contest, throwing 63 of 97 pitches for strikes across six frames and only allowing one hit. After reaching six or more innings four times in 16 starts prior to this month, Javier now has three such games in August alone. All three games, including Sunday's, have resulted in quality starts. The stellar outing improved Javier's ERA to 2.96, which he will take into his next appearance.
Aug 7 2022Javier (6-8) allowed a run on six hits and no walks while striking out four in six innings to take the loss during Sunday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was effective during Sunday's outing, and the only run he gave up came via a solo homer in the bottom of the fifth inning. Although he picked up his second consecutive quality start, he was charged with the loss against Cleveland since the Astros' offense mustered just two hits. The right-hander has posted a 3.18 ERA in 17 innings over his last three outings but has been charged with losses in each of those starts. He tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Athletics next Sunday.
Aug 2 2022Javier (6-7) took the loss during Tuesday's 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Red Sox, allowing two runs on four hits and one walk with seven strikeouts in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier struck out the side in the first inning and faced the minimum through three frames, but was done in by Rafael Devers thereafter as Boston's third baseman knocked an RBI double in the fourth and connected on a solo shot in the sixth to saddle the 25-year-old with his second straight loss. Despite the 0-2 record, Javier has pitched to a solid 3.38 ERA in 16 innings across his last three starts and was able to induce an impressive 15 swinging strikes Tuesday. He tentatively lines up to take the hill again this week Sunday in Cleveland.
Jul 28 2022Javier (6-6) gave up three earned runs on five hits and one walk while striking out six over five innings to take the loss in a 4-2 defeat to the Athletics on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephen Vogt and Stephen Piscotty took Javier deep on back-to-back solo shots in the second. Javier gave up another run in the fifth, as the Astros offense was unable to take him off the hook. Despite having a bit of trouble keeping the ball in the yard against the Athletics, the 25-year-old right-hander only allowed six baserunners and garnered 14 swinging strikes. Javier is putting together the best season of his young career and boasts an excellent 12.3 K/9 to go along with a 2.63 xERA. He is tentatively expected to make his next start Tuesday against the Red Sox.
Jul 21 2022Javier allowed one earned run on two hits and four walks while striking out three across five innings in the first game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Yankees. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier wasn't sharp, as only 57 of his 99 pitches went for strikes. He's now walked at least three batters in each of his last three starts, during which he's allowed nine earned runs across 13.2 frames. Despite the tough stretch, Javier still owns an excellent 3.13 ERA and 115:34 K:BB across 83.1 innings for the campaign.
Jul 13 2022Javier (6-5) allowed three runs on five hits and three walks with 10 strikeouts in 3.2 innings, taking the loss Wednesday versus the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier recorded 10 of his 11 outs via strikeout, but the Angels made the most of his mistakes. Shohei Ohtani delivered the biggest hit off Javier, a two-run triple in the second inning that proved too much for the Astros to overcome. This was a second straight shaky start from the 25-year-old right-hander. He now owns a 3.22 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 112:30 K:BB across 78.1 innings in 17 appearances (13 starts). Javier's spot in the Astros' six-man rotation is probably safe at least until Lance McCullers (forearm) is cleared to return.
Jul 6 2022Javier (6-4) took the loss against Kansas City on Wednesday, allowing five runs on four hits and three walks while striking out seven batters over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Royals got to Javier early in the contest, belting three long balls and scoring four runs over the first two innings. The righty hurler gave up only one more run the rest of his outing, but the damage was too much for Houston's offense to overcome. Javier had allowed only five homers over 69.2 innings entering the contest, and he hadn't given up more than one in any of his 15 outings. He's had a few poor starts but has been very good overall, posting a 3.01 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 102:27 K:BB.
Jul 1 2022Javier (6-3) earned the win Friday, allowing one run on one hit and zero walks over seven innings in an 8-1 victory over the Angels. He struck out 14. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After throwing seven no-hit innings and fanning 13 against the Yankees last weekend, Javier followed up with a similarly dominant showing. He got 20 called strikes and 23 swinging strikes on 99 pitches. The right-hander just turned in perhaps the best two-start stretch of the Modern Era, and he now has a 2.58 ERA and 0.96 WHIP for the season (69.2 innings). Javier lines up for a home start against the Royals next week.
Jun 25 2022Javier (5-3) earned the win after he pitched seven no-hit innings, giving up one walk while striking out 13 in Saturday's victory over the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was masterful in this one, registering a season-high 13 punchouts while limiting the Yankees to just a walk in what ended up being a combined no-hitter for the Astros. The 25-year-old has now rattled off three straight strong starts following a five run blow up against the Mariners on June 6, posting a 1.50 ERA with 25 strikeouts over 18 innings during that stretch. He now owns a 2.73 ERA and 1.05 WHIP with 81 punchouts over 62.2 frames in 14 appearances (10 starts) this season. Javier tentatively lines up to pitch at home versus the Angels next week.
Jun 19 2022Javier (4-3) earned the win Sunday over the White Sox. He allowed a run on two hits, four walks and a hit batter with five strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier kept the White Sox off the board until Luis Robert hit an RBI double in the fifth inning. The right-hander wasn't particularly efficient, needing 93 pitches (58 strikes) to complete five frames, but it was enough for his first win in his last four starts. Javier has a 3.07 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 68:23 K:BB across 55.2 innings overall. He's got a tough matchup on tap next weekend, he's expected to draw a road start versus the Yankees.
Jun 13 2022Javier allowed two runs on five hits and three walks over six innings in Monday's loss to Texas. He struck out seven and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only damage against Javier through the first six innings came during the third frame on Kole Calhoun's sacrifice fly. He was removed from the game after walking Brad Miller to begin the seventh and was charged with that run while Ryne Stanek was pitching. Javier now owns a 3.20 ERA with a 63:19 K:BB through 50.2 innings this season. He's walked eight batters while giving up eight runs over his last 13.2 frames. The 25-year-old is projected to face the White Sox at home this weekend.
Jun 10 2022Javier isn't listed as a starter for any of the Astros' three games with the Marlins this weekend and could be available out of the bullpen, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Entering the week, Javier lined up to start Sunday's series finale versus Miami, but the Astros will take advantage of Thursday's off day and use it to reorder the rotation. As a result, Justin Verlander, who started in Tuesday's win over the Marlins, will return to the mound Sunday on four days' rest for just the second time this season. Javier is now tentatively lined up to make his next start during next week's road series versus the Rangers.
Jun 6 2022Javier (3-3) took the loss against Seattle on Monday, pitching 3.2 innings and allowing five runs on six hits and one walk while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier gave up six hits in the outing, and three went for extra bases. He surrendered a run on a single and a double in the first inning and was tagged for a three-run homer in the second. The Astros tied the score 4-4 with a big second frame, but Javier coughed up the lead in the fourth and was removed with two outs. The right-hander has given up two or fewer runs in nine of his 11 starts this season, but he's yielded 12 runs across 7.1 combined innings in his other two appearances. Javier will carry a 3.22 ERA into his next start, which is expected to come at home against Miami this weekend.
May 31 2022Javier allowed a run on four hits and four walks with four strikeouts over four innings in a no-decision versus the Athletics on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier wasn't efficient in this outing, throwing only 47 of 85 pitches for strikes. The four walks were a season high for the right-hander, but the Athletics were only able to scrape together a single run on a Cristian Pache RBI single. Javier owns a 2.41 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 52:15 K:BB across 41 innings in 10 appearances (six starts) this year. He'll look to pitch deeper in his next scheduled start, which is expected to be at home versus the Mariners next week.
May 25 2022Javier (3-2) earned the win over Cleveland on Wednesday, tossing 5.2 scoreless innings and allowing three hits and one walk while striking out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier fanned nine batters -- a season high -- for the second straight game, and he racked up 20 swings-and-misses among his 96 pitches Wednesday. After working as a reliever at the beginning of the campaign, the right-hander has started in five of his past six outings and has performed well aside from a seven-run blowup in 3.2 innings against Washington on May 14. His recent big strikeout numbers have raised his fantasy appeal considerably and increased the likelihood that he'll remain a part of Houston's rotation even after Jake Odorizzi (leg) returns to action. Javier's next start is lined up to come in Oakland next week.
May 21 2022Javier (2-2) was saddled with the loss during Friday's 3-0 defeat at the hands of the Rangers, allowing one run on three hits and one walk with nine strikeouts in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier delivered his best start of 2022 with a 70 game score but it was spoiled by opposing starter Martin Perez's shutout. The 25-year-old posted season highs in innings (six), pitches (91) and strikeouts (nine) and rebounded nicely from a poor performance May 14 against Washington. Javier has been lights out with an 0.99 ERA when removing the Washington start and is making a strong bid to remain in the rotation once Jake Odorizzi returns from a leg injury. His next start is projected to come against Cleveland next week.
May 15 2022Javier (2-1) allowed seven earned runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out five across 3.2 innings to take the loss Saturday against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier struggled for the entire outing, as he allowed at least one run in all but three of his four innings. The big blows came on a three-run home run by Yadiel Hernandez in third frame and a bases-clearing double by Nelson Cruz in the fourth. If there was a positive to pick out, Javier did manage to record 13 swinging strikes on 84 total pitches. While this was Javier's first time allowing more than two earned runs in an appearance, he has worked more than 3.2 innings only once due to his inconsistent role to begin the campaign. It appears that the team has settled on a six-man rotation for the time being, which would put Javier tentatively in line to pitch again Friday against Texas.
May 12 2022Javier will start Saturday against the Nationals, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier followed Jake Odorizzi in his last outing, throwing three scoreless innings Sunday against the Tigers. Javier will have the chance to start in a traditional role Saturday, leaving the team's plans for Odorizzi unclear. Across 21.2 innings this season, Javier has maintained a 0.83 ERA and 0.78 WHIP with a 25:6 K:BB while working as both a starter and multi-inning reliever.
May 8 2022Javier was credited with a hold after striking out five and allowing no hits and a walk over three scoreless innings out of the bullpen Sunday in the Astros' 5-0 win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After securing his second win of the season five days earlier when he delivered 5.1 scoreless innings in his start against the Mariners, Javier continued to aid fantasy managers' ratios in his second appearance of the week. He ended up piggybacking starter Jake Odorizzi, who worked the first five innings of the game. The Astros have an off day Monday, so the team will likely reorder its six-man rotation and move Javier to the back of the line. He projects to make his next start May 15 in Washington, unless the Astros opt to have Javier piggyback Odorizzi again.
May 3 2022Javier (2-0) got the win during Tuesday's 4-0 victory over Seattle, allowing two hits and two walks with four strikeouts in 5.1 scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier retired the first eight batters he faced though noticeably slowed down by permitting two baserunners in the fifth inning and one in the sixth that prompted his removal. The 25-year-old has improved his pitch count in each of his five appearances and has only allowed one run in 11.2 innings across three starts. The superb performance probably earned him another turn, likely to come next week against Minnesota.
Apr 24 2022Javier will start Wednesday's game against the Rangers, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old has worked in long relief to begin the season, but he'll receive a starting opportunity after delivering 8.1 innings across his three appearances. Javier threw 55 pitches in his previous appearance, so he may be limited to about 70-to-80 pitches his first time through the rotation. Jake Odorizzi, who has struggled so far in 2022, is also scheduled to start versus Texas, so it appears manager Dusty Baker will employ a six-man rotation.
Apr 13 2022Javier tossed three shutout innings in relief, striking out five and hitting two batters in a 3-2 loss Wednesday in Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier made his second appearance of the year out of the bullpen for Houston. The 25-year-old has now struck out eight of the 17 batters he's faced this year. The Astros frequently used Javier for more than one inning in relief last season and appear to have the same plan for the beginning part of 2022.
Mar 28 2022Javier will begin the 2022 season in the bullpen, operating as a long-relief option, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Dusty Baker said Monday that Javier will be a relief option to start the 2022 campaign, potentially making a spot start here and there. The 25-year-old mostly pitched out of the bullpen last season, appearing in 36 games while starting nine times. He'll look to build on his strong numbers from 2021 where he produced a 3.55 ERA and 1.18 WHIP while going 4-1 with two saves on four attempts and collecting five holds. Javier also excelled in strikeout department, finishing the year with a 11.5 K/9.
Sep 14 2021Javier (4-1) allowed one run on three hits and one walk while striking out six over 2.2 relief innings Monday to pick up the win over Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier came in for starter Jake Odorizzi, who was removed after 1.1 innings with a foot injury sustained while covering first base. By that time, Houston had built a 7-0 lead, and Javier just needed to get outs. Long relief is familiar to Javier, who served as a starter earlier this season before moving to the bullpen in a multi-inning role.
Aug 20 2021Javier was credited with the save Thursday against the Royals after tossing a scoreless inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier entered the game with a three-run cushion after the Astros scored three runs in the top of the 10th, and he didn't have problems retiring the side in order even if he didn't record a single strikeout. The right-hander has given up runs in three of his last six outings, however, and he's been lacking a bit of consistency of late. Still, he owns a 1.98 ERA -- although with a 1.54 WHIP and a 5.9 BB/9 -- through 13.2 innings since the All-Star break.
Jul 26 2021Javier struck out two over two scoreless innings and picked up a hold in Sunday's 3-1 win over Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Relievers don't face more stressful situations than Javier did Sunday, entering with none out and the bases loaded in the seventh inning. He then fanned Eli White and induced an inning-ending double-play grounder by Isiah Kiner-Falefa. Javier worked an uneventful eighth inning to earn his fifth hold. The 24-year-old right-hander, who began the season in the rotation, is setting into a multi-inning bullpen role. Over 13 relief outings, he's posted a 2.25 ERA with 37 strikeouts and 15 walks in 28 innings.
Jul 10 2021Javier allowed a hit and a walk while striking out five over three scoreless relief innings in Saturday's 1-0 loss to the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Starter Zack Greinke was removed after four innings with shoulder soreness, at which point Javier took the mound. The 24-year-old was excellent in a bulk-relief role. He had given up four runs in 9.1 innings across his six previous outings prior to Saturday's multi-inning assignment. Javier began the year in the rotation, but he's since shifted to a bullpen role that has seen him log a save, three holds and a blown save. If Greinke ends up missing a start, Javier would be a natural option as a spot starter. He's posted a 3.00 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 89:35 K:BB across 72 innings.
Jun 22 2021Javier struck out two over two perfect relief innings in Monday's 10-2 win over Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier has been used as a multi-inning reliever since he was the odd-man out of the rotation in late May and has performed well in that role. He's recorded a 2.40 ERA and 0.87 WHIP while striking out 17 over 15 innings. Javier has been insurance for returning starters, serving as a bulk reliever. As those starters get deeper into games, there could be a role for Javier as a traditional high-leverage reliever, something Houston has been missing in 2021. His four-seamer, which has averaged 93 mph this season, averaged 95.6 mph Monday after he threw just 39 pitches since June 9.
Jun 9 2021Javier pitched four scoreless innings of one-hit ball with three strikeouts to earn the save in Wednesday's 8-3 win over Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander performed well in relief of Jake Odorizzi and spared the bullpen at the same time to earn a rare four-inning save. Javier opened the season as a starter, but his last three appearances have been in relief after Houston got some starters back from injury at the end of May. This was Javier's first career save. He's added a 3.02 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 71:26 K:BB across 59.2 innings this year. He'll be a leading candidate to re-enter the rotation should injuries arise, but he won't carry much fantasy value in a bulk relief role.
May 29 2021Javier allowed one run on two hits and two walks while striking out four over four relief innings in Friday's 10-3 extra-innings loss to the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier is the odd-man out of the rotation after Framber Valdez and Jake Odorizzi were activated off the injured list. This was Javier's first appearance out of the bullpen and an encouraging one at that. Houston's bullpen, outside of closer Ryan Pressly, has not performed well this season.
May 26 2021Astros manager Dusty Baker said Wednesday that Javier would be moved to the bullpen, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Lance McCullers (shoulder) was moved to the 10-day injured list Wednesday, the Astros are expected to return two starters (Framber Valdez and Jake Odorizzi) from the IL this weekend, and another on Monday (Jose Urquidy). Those reinforcements leave no room in the rotation for Javier, whose move to the bullpen was likely sealed after he issued a season-high six walks in 4.2 innings during his last start Sunday against the Rangers. The 24-year-old is probably overqualified for a long-relief role, so if the Astros can't find consistent, high-leverage work for him, Javier could be headed for Triple-A Sugar Land in the near future in order to pick up regular starts.
May 23 2021Javier allowed one run on one hit and six walks across 4.2 innings in Sunday's loss to Texas. He struck out five and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier walked a career-high six batters and, fittingly, the only run to score on him came on a bases-loaded walk by Brooks Raley after Javier was lifted from the game. Despite throwing just 50 of 94 pitches for strikes, the 24-year-old righty lowered his season ERA to 3.14 alongside a 58:21 K:BB through 48.2 innings. He's lined up to face the red-hot Padres at home next weekend.
May 19 2021Javier allowed three runs on five hits and one walk while striking out nine in a no-decision to Oakland on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier worked around three solo home runs and left with the game tied after six innings. The right-hander works up in the zone, so there is the potential for flyballs and homers. It's surprising he didn't allow any long balls in four April starts, but it's all catching up to him now. Javier's allowed seven HRs in 23.1 innings over four May starts (one loss, three no-decisions). His next start is expected to be Sunday on the road against Texas.
May 13 2021Javier took a no-decision during Thursday's win over the Rangers, allowing three runs on four hits and a pair of walks while striking out six over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier gave up a run over each of his first three innings of work, including a solo homer to Willie Calhoun in the first. From there, the 24-year-old found his groove, blanking the Rangers the rest of the way while throwing 59 of his 99 pitches for strikes in the process. It was a promising bounce-back outing following two labored starts for Javier, during which he gave up a total of eight runs, including three homers. The righty, who has compiled a 3.08 ERA and 0.97 WHIP on the season, lines up to take on the A's in Oakland on Wednesday.
May 8 2021Javier (3-1) allowed five earned runs on four hits and four walks while striking out eight across 5.1 innings Saturday, taking the loss to the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier served up multiple home runs for the first time this season. His five runs allowed Saturday matched his previous season total through 25.2 innings. The 24-year-old has a 7.13 ERA in 10.1 innings over his last two outings versus a 0.87 ERA in 20.2 innings over his first four starts. In addition, his eight walks are a season high for him. His high-strikeouts totals are consistent though, supporting a 11.03 K/9. Javier will look to get back on track Thursday against Texas.
May 2 2021Javier allowed three runs on four hits and two walks over five innings in Sunday's loss to the Rays. He struck out four and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier kept the Rays scoreless through four innings until serving up a three-run shot to Austin Meadows in the fifth. Houston took the lead in the top of the sixth so the 24-year-old was in line for a win before Tampa Bay came back against the bullpen. Javier still owns a terrific 1.75 ERA and 30:8 K:BB through 25.2 innings. He's lined up to face the Blue Jays at home next weekend.
Apr 27 2021Javier (3-0) pitched seven scoreless innings to earn the win over Seattle on Tuesday. He allowed two hits and three walks while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander made things look easy again, allowing only a pair of hits -- both to Kyle Seager -- and preventing the Mariners from reaching third base. He completed seven innings for the first time in his career and stretched his streak of consecutive scoreless frames to 17. Javier's ERA now stands at a sterling 0.87 through 20.2 innings, and he has complemented that minuscule mark with a 26:6 K:BB. The second-year emerging star will look to continue his hot streak when he faces the Rays on the road Sunday.
Apr 22 2021Javier (2-0) earned the win Thursday after holding the Angels scoreless across five innings, giving up three hits and a walk while striking out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was lights out in his return to the rotation during a dominant performance against the Angels, recording a career-high nine strikeouts en route to the victory. Overall, the 24-year-old's pitch count was on the high side with 98 pitches--62 for strikes--to go with 21 swings and misses. Javier, making his first start in nearly two weeks due to Houston's light schedule, was recalled from Houston's alternate training site ahead of Thursday's game. The right-hander will look to carry his momentum into a Tuesday showdown against Seattle.
Apr 21 2021The Astros will recall Javier from their alternate site to start Thursday's series opener versus the Angels in Houston, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Houston sent Javier back to the alternate site April 10, but that was a byproduct of the team's light schedule over the past two weeks rather than the result of any dissatisfaction with the right-hander's performance through his first two starts of the season. With Houston's next off day not coming until May 3, the club will transition back to a five-man rotation featuring Javier, Zack Greinke, Jake Odorizzi, Lance McCullers and Jose Urquidy.
Apr 10 2021Javier was optioned to the alternate training site after Saturday's loss to the A's, Julia Morales of AT&T SportsNet Southwest reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander delivered five scoreless frames in his second start of the season Thursday, but he'll head to the alternate site since Houston has three scheduled days off in the next nine days. Javier will remain built up as a starter and should rejoin the rotation when the Astros next need a fifth starter during the series against the Angels, which begins April 22.
Apr 8 2021Javier (1-0) shut out the Athletics, allowing three hits while striking out seven and walking two over seven innings in Thursday's victory. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty was much sharper than he was in his debut, throwing 57 of his 88 pitches for strikes. The 24-year-old recorded a 3.48 ERA in his rookie campaign as he looks to build on it in 2021. His next opportunity to start comes on Tuesday against the Tigers.
Apr 3 2021Javier allowed two runs on three hits while striking out four over 3.2 innings in Friday's 9-5 win over the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier cruised through the first three innings on just 39 pitches but needed 38 in the fourth to get two outs before manager Dusty Baker pulled him. In 2020, Oakland carved up the young right-hander, who earned third place in Rookie of the Year voting, plating seven runs in eight innings against Javier. He had a 2.72 ERA against all other teams. Javier missed time during spring training due to COVID-19 protocols, so his stamina early in the season may not be that of other starters that were able to make a normal spring progression.
Mar 29 2021Javier threw 70 pitches over 5.1 innings in a "B" game against the Marlins on Sunday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier, who missed a week of preparation during spring training due to health and safety protocols, is preparing to start the second game of the regular season. He's behind other starters, but Sunday's outing puts Javier in range to throw five-plus innings against the Athletics on Friday, which potentially qualifies him for a win.
Mar 27 2021Javier will start the second game of the regular season, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Astros manager Dusty Baker named the first four starters of the regular season and has Javier following Opening Day starter Zack Greinke. Javier's start will likely involve heavy bullpen management, as the right-hander's preseason buildup was impacted by a week-long absence due to issues related to COVID-19. He's thrown just three innings during Grapefruit League play, which means someone like Brandon Bielak or Bryan Abreu could be asked to pitch multiple innings that day.
Mar 15 2021Javier allowed one walk over a scoreless inning in Sunday's spring game against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was the first game action since March 3 for Javier, who was away from camp on health and safety protocols. He's expected to be part of the starting rotation and feels there's enough time to get ready for the regular season, per Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. With 17 days remaining before Opening Day, Javier could get three more outings to build pitch counts and innings.
Mar 11 2021Javier (COVID-19 health and safety protocols) returned to the Astros' spring-training complex Thursday and completed a bullpen session, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was one of several Houston players that was forced to self-isolate last week due to COVID-19 protocols, but only reliever Pedro Baez is believed to have tested positive for the virus. With the right-hander now back in camp less than a week after entering the protocol, he should still be on track to clinch a spot in Houston's Opening Day rotation. Javier may find himself a few days behind his fellow starters in the build-up process, however.
Mar 5 2021Manager Dusty Baker said Friday that Javier is out due to health and safety protocols, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier is on track to break camp with a spot in the Astros' rotation, but his preparation will be thrown off at least to some degree until he is cleared to resume team activities.
Mar 3 2021Javier allowed one hit and one walk while striking out two over two scoreless innings in Tuesday's spring game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier followed starter Framber Valdez in the game, but he's expected to be a rotation member in 2021. The advanced metrics indicate the right-hander may have overachieved as a rookie in 2020 -- he finished third in Rookie of the Year balloting -- but he's earned the shot to be a starter this year. Javier's main challenge may be to increase last year's workload of 54.1 innings -- he's never thrown more than 113.2 frames in a season.
Sep 24 2020Javier (5-2) picked up the win Thursday after holding the Rangers to three runs on five hits and a walk while striking out six across 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier blanked the Rangers until the sixth inning when Willie Calhoun swatted a two-run home run. Following a wild pitch, the 23-year-old allowed a third run to score on a sacrifice fly to Rougned Odor, who would be his final batter of the night. Despite spending the majority of his rookie season as a starter, Javier is expected to move into the bullpen for the Wild Card Series. The right-hander finishes out the regular season with a 3.48 ERA and 0.99 WHIP across 12 appearances (10 starts).
Sep 19 2020Javier allowed two runs on four hits and a walk while striking out six across four innings Saturday against the Diamondbacks. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier had his strikeout pitch working, as he racked up 15 called strikes and 10 swinging strikes on 77 total pitches, and his six strikeouts were the most he's had in his last nine starts. On the other hand, he was undone by leadoff hitters, as Kole Calhoun took him yard to open the second frame. The following inning, he allowed a leadoff double to Daulton Varsho, who later came around to score. Javier has now maintained a 3.33 ERA with a 48:17 K:BB across 48.2 innings for the season. He'll line up to take his final start of the campaign Thursday at Texas.
Sep 9 2020Javier won't start during the two-game series against the Dodgers this weekend, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros will opt to readjust their starting rotation thanks to Friday's scheduled off day, putting Framber Valdez and Zack Greinke on the mound in Los Angeles. Javier has a 3.38 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 37:16 K:BB through 42.2 innings and should receive his next start sometime next week.
Sep 7 2020Javier (4-2) allowed two runs on three hits and three walks over five innings in a loss to the Athletics on Monday. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier allowed a pair of runs, including a Sean Murphy solo shot, in the second inning. With the Astros failing to score a run, it was enough to leave Javier with the loss. The 23-year-old right-hander now has a 3.38 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 37 strikeouts across 42.2 innings this year. He'll try to get back in the win column Sunday in a road start versus the Dodgers.
Sep 2 2020Javier (4-1) picked up the win Wednesday after holding the Rangers to one run on two hits and a pair of walks while striking out three across 6.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier came out hot with a seven-pitch first inning and held the Rangers scoreless until the fourth, when he gave up a solo home run to Isiah Kiner-Falefa. It was the first right-handed base hit against his slider this year. Overall, the 23-year-old rookie tossed five clean innings en route to the longest outing of his career. Javier, who leads the Houston starters with four wins, will carry a 3.35 ERA and 0.96 WHIP into a Monday matchup at Oakland.
Aug 25 2020Javier (3-1) earned the win in Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Angels after allowing three runs on three hits over 5.2 innings. He had five strikeouts and two walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 24-year-old started with four scoreless frames, but the Halos were able to bring across three runs over the fifth and sixth innings. Javier has a 3.77 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 31:11 K:BB through 31 innings and will look to continue his strong rookie campaign next week against the Rangers.
Aug 20 2020Javier allowed three earned runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out five across 3.2 innings Thursday against the Rockies. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier allowed nine baserunners in the short outing, but was ultimately burned by two home runs while pitching at Coors Field. He did still flash some deceptiveness, racking up 12 called strikes and nine swinging strikes across 78 pitches. Through five starts, Javier now has a 3.55 ERA with a 26:9 K:BB across 25.1 frames. He'll look to bounce back in his next outing, currently projected to come Tuesday against the Angels.
Aug 16 2020Javier (2-1) earned the win over Seattle on Saturday, pitching six scoreless innings and yielding one hit and three walks while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was wild in the outing -- he threw only 48 of 88 pitches for strikes and walked three batters -- but he made up for the lack of control by limiting Seattle to a single hit and no runs. The outcome is especially impressive considering the fact that Javier was behind hitters most of the night (he issued first-pitch strikes to only four of the 19 batters he faced) and induced a mere six swinging strikes. The rookie rebounded from his first rough start last Sunday against Oakland and has now allowed one or fewer earned runs in three of his first four career starts. He'll carry a 2.91 ERA, 0.83 WHIP and 21:7 K:BB into his next start, scheduled for Thursday at Colorado.
Aug 9 2020Javier (1-1) picked up his first MLB loss in Sunday's game against the Athletics. He allowed five runs on three hits and two walks while striking out five over three innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three hits Javier allowed cleared the fence. Robbie Grossman took him deep for a solo home run in the second inning, then Matt Olson (three-run homer) and Matt Chapman (solo) finished Javier's day in the third. The rookie suffered his first road bump as a replacement for Justin Verlander; he had pitched into the sixth inning in each of his previous two starts. Javier's next start comes Saturday at home against Seattle.
Aug 5 2020Javier (1-0) allowed one run on four hits and one walk while striking out two to earn his first win in Tuesday's 8-2 victory over Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was good enough for a second straight start after he held the Dodgers' potent offense in check in his first start. He didn't have his best stuff Tuesday, but he had the composure to work through it. The right-hander also had Houston's potent offense behind him, which can help a young pitcher like Javier, who has taken over Justin Verlander's spot in the rotation. He's next scheduled to take the mound Sunday on the road against Oakland.
Jul 30 2020Javier allowed one run on two hits and one walk while striking out eight over 5.2 innings while taking a no-decision in a 4-2 extra-innings loss to the Dodgers on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier was tapped as the fill-in starter for the injured Justin Verlander (forearm) and turned in an effort worthy of the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner. Unfortunately, Houston's batters failed to support the rookie who had two innings of experience above Double-A prior to the season. The Astros left 15 men on base and went 3-for-19 with runners in scoring position. The right-hander's next start is expected Tuesday on the road against the Diamondbacks.
Jul 29 2020Manager Dusty Baker confirmed that Javier would start Wednesday's game against the Dodgers, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Prior to Tuesday's 5-2 loss to the Dodgers, Baker stopped short of locking Javier in to start the series finale, but the rookie will now get the ball Wednesday after he wasn't needed out of the bullpen a day earlier. Javier will face the unenviable task of filling in for ace Justin Verlander (forearm) in what will mark the 23-year-old's first MLB start. Javier split time between the High-A, Double-A and Triple-A levels in 2019, posting a sparkling 1.74 ERA and 0.97 WHIP to go with a 170:59 K:BB in 113.2 innings. Though he had been stretched out to start in summer camp, expect Javier to be capped at around five innings Wednesday.
Jul 28 2020Javier will start Wednesday's game against the Dodgers unless he's needed in relief Tuesday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros have a hole in their rotation following Justin Verlander's forearm strain, as they're also without Jose Urquidy (undisclosed) and Austin Pruitt (elbow). Javier is expected to get the first crack at the job, though that can't be confirmed until after Tuesday's contest. Javier has thrown just 12 innings above the Double-A level, including an inning of relief this season, though his 1.74 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 37.3 percent strikeout rate in 113.2 innings split across the three highest levels of the minors last season are all encouraging numbers. He did walk 12.9 percent of opposing batters, though, so he's hardly a finished product.
Jul 27 2020Javier is viewed as a potential candidate to take Justin Verlander's (forearm) spot in the rotation when a new fifth starter is first needed Wednesday against the Dodgers, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier made the Astros' Opening Day roster as a member of the bullpen, but he had been stretched out as a starter during summer camp. Since he only covered one scoreless frame out of the bullpen in Saturday's win over the Mariners, he should be sufficiently rested and ready to handle the bulk of the innings Wednesday, if he's chosen to replace Verlander. McTaggart also notes that fellow long reliever Cy Sneed and top pitching prospect Forrest Whitley are other candidates to replace Verlander.
Jul 23 2020Javier earned a spot on Houston's 30-man roster, Julia Morales of AT&T SportsNet Southwest reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Framber Valdez working as Houston's fifth starter, Javier will assume a spot in the team's Opening Day bullpen. The talented young right-hander has appeared in just two games above Double-A, so he figures to start out in a lower-leverage role.
Jul 20 2020Javier allowed one run on six hits over five innings in Sunday's intrasquad game, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. He threw 51 of 77 pitches for strikes. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier may still be in the mix for the rotation but has probably sealed a spot on the staff to start the season with Sunday's effort. Houston manager Dusty Baker has yet to name a fifth starter, though Framber Valdez appears to the likely choice. "It will probably go down to the wire," Baker said. "We don't want to commit right now. We don't want the guys to stop working or get down. We've talked about it, but we can't say right now." Javier, who has two games worth of experience above Double-A, could land on the active roster considering how thin the Astros bullpen has become due to injuries.
Jul 15 2020Javier could make the Opening Day roster, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros' pitching staff has been hit hard by injuries and absences from camp, and with Javier already on the 40-man roster and fairly accomplished in the upper levels of the minors, he is a natural candidate to step into an early-season role. Javier lacks a plus offspeed pitch or premium velocity, but he has never failed in the minors (2.22 ERA, 1.03 WHIP in 377 career innings) and he had a 1.74 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 170:59 K:BB in 113.2 innings across three levels in 2019. His top pitch is a low-90s "invisiball" that is incredibly deceptive from his low three-quarters arm slot. He projects as a solid No. 4 starter and could be used as a swing man or long reliever in 2020.
Mar 6 2020Javier was optioned to minor-league camp, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 22-year-old was added to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft in November, and he's set to begin another season in the minors. Javier made his way to Triple-A Round Rock by the end of 2019 and allowed only two runs with a 16:4 K:BB over 11 innings.
Feb 20 2020Javier will start Houston's Grapefruit League opener Saturday against the Nationals, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Javier will get the ball first for the Astros this spring, with Framber Valdez set to follow him Sunday. The 22-year-old Javier was added to Houston's 40-man roster this offseason in order to protect him from the Rule 5 draft. He notched a 1.74 ERA and 37.3 percent strikeout rate in 113.2 innings across the three highest levels of the minors in 2019, though only 11 of those innings came at the Triple-A level.
Jun 28 2018Javier tossed seven scoreless innings Wednesday for High-A Buies Creek in its 7-3 win over Myrtle Beach. He gave up four hits and a walk and struck out eight.Javier swung between the bullpen and rotation for various low-level affiliates through his first three professional seasons, but the Astros have seemingly committed to developing him as a starter in 2018. That plan has paid major dividends thus far, with the 21-year-old running up a 1.47 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 94:28 K:BB in 67.1 innings while splitting time between Buies Creek and Low-A Quad Cities. Javier leans heavily on his slider as a put-away pitch, but the right-hander is still looking to find more consistency with his changeup. He'll likely need to diversify his arsenal a little more at the higher levels of the minors to find continued success and convince the organization he's capable of starting over the long haul.