Astros RHP Lance McCullers Jr. back on IL with finger blister

Field Level Media|published: Tue 22nd July, 20:36 2025

Jul 19, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Houston Astros starter Lance McCullers Jr. (43) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Houston Astros right-handed pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. was placed back on the injured list Tuesday, retroactive to Sunday, with a right finger blister.

This marks Houston's seventh starting pitcher and 17th player total on IL. McCullers, 31, began the season on the IL and made his debut on May 4, his first start since the 2022 World Series.

He underwent surgery to repair a flexor tendon in June 2023, forcing him to miss the remainder of that season. McCullers faced a setback in his recovery in 2024, keeping him out for another year.

McCullers was placed on the 15-day IL with a foot strain in June. The one-time All-Star is 2-4 with a 6.90 ERA over 44 1/3 innings in 11 starts this season.

Houston is recalling Nick Hernandez from Triple-A Sugar Land to fill McCullers' roster spot.

Hernandez has appeared in two games for the Astros this season, pitching to a 9.00 ERA over two innings.

--Field Level Media