Astros activate RHP Cristian Javier to face Tigers

Field Level Media|published: Sat 11th May, 15:29 2024

Apr 3, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Cristian Javier (53) after a pitch during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Minute Maid Park. credits: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Astros activated right-hander Cristian Javier to the active roster Saturday and designated right-hander Brandon Bielak for assignment.

The anticipated move allows Javier to start Saturday's road game against the Detroit Tigers. He had been on the injured list since April 21 because of neck discomfort.

Javier, 27, was 2-0 with a 1.54 ERA in four starts to open the season. In five seasons with the Astros, he is 32-17 with a 3.47 ERA in 113 appearances (79 starts).

The Astros' rotation now has Javier, Justin Verlander and Framber Valdez all back from the injured list since late April.

Bielak, 28, had a 5.71 ERA in 10 relief appearances for Houston. Also with five seasons of experience for the Astros, Bielak is 11-13 lifetime with a 4.65 ERA in 70 appearances (21 starts). He made a career-high 13 starts in 15 appearances last season and went 5-6 with a 3.83 ERA.

—Field Level Media