As the Houston Astros gear up for another exciting season, fans are eagerly anticipating the return of their star pitcher, Framber Valdez. However, with Valdez currently sidelined due to a fractured finger, there is speculation about who could potentially fill his spot in the rotation. One name that has been circulating is a familiar face to Astros fans – former ace pitcher, Justin Verlander.
Verlander, who spent two and a half seasons with the Astros before undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2020, has been making steady progress in his recovery. While there is no set timeline for his return, there is a possibility that he could be ready to join the rotation by mid-season. And with Valdez expected to be out for at least the first half of the season, could Verlander make a comeback and take over his spot in the rotation?
It’s a question that has divided fans and experts alike. On one hand, Verlander is a proven veteran with a track record of success. He was a key part of the Astros’ 2017 World Series-winning team and was named the ALCS MVP that year. In his two and a half seasons with the team, Verlander had a 2.45 ERA and 373 strikeouts, solidifying his place as one of the top pitchers in the league.
On the other hand, there are concerns about his age and recovery from surgery. Verlander will turn 39 in February and coming back from a major surgery at that age is no easy feat. There are also questions about whether he will be able to regain his previous form and be as dominant as he once was.
But despite these doubts, there is reason to believe that Verlander could still be a valuable asset to the Astros’ rotation. For one, he has a strong work ethic and a competitive drive that has kept him at the top of his game for so long. He has also been diligent in his recovery and has been working closely with the Astros’ medical team to ensure that he comes back stronger than ever.
Moreover, Verlander has always been a leader on and off the field, and his presence in the clubhouse could provide a much-needed boost to the team. With a young and talented rotation, having a veteran like Verlander to guide and mentor them could be invaluable.
Of course, there are also other options for the Astros to consider. They have a deep pool of talented pitchers, including Cristian Javier, Jose Urquidy, and Luis Garcia, who could all step up and fill Valdez’s spot in the rotation. And with the recent signing of veteran pitcher Jake Odorizzi, the Astros have added another experienced arm to their arsenal.
But there is no denying the impact that Verlander could have on the team if he were to return. His experience, leadership, and talent could be just what the Astros need to make another deep playoff run. And with the team’s sights set on a World Series title, having a proven ace like Verlander in the rotation could be the missing piece to their puzzle.
Of course, there is no guarantee that Verlander will be able to return to the same level of dominance he once had. But if anyone can defy the odds and make a successful comeback, it’s Verlander. And with the Astros’ strong support system and his own determination, there is reason to believe that he could make a triumphant return to the mound.
In the end, the decision will ultimately be up to the Astros’ front office and coaching staff. They will have to weigh the risks and benefits of bringing Verlander back and make a decision that is in the best interest of the team. But one thing is for sure – if Verlander does make a comeback and takes over Valdez’s spot in the rotation, it will be a moment that Astros fans will never forget.
In the meantime, let’s continue to support Valdez in his recovery and keep our fingers crossed for Verlander’s return. The Astros are a resilient and talented team, and with or without Verlander, they have what it takes to make another run at the World Series. So let’s trust in the process and have faith that our beloved team will continue to make us proud. Go Astros!
