Astros News: Hunter Brown expected to step up after Lance McCullers Jr. injury setback

Hunter Brown has reportedly been suggested as a replacement for injured starting pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. Although the initial MRI did not reveal anything significant, the Astros' management does not want to begin the new season with too few players. Yet, it appears that McCullers' ailment may last until the opening day of the 2023 season.

This could be the opportunity that the 24-year-old has been looking for. Hunter Brown will be added as a starter for the Astros in spring training. The Astros' management was reluctant to sign a new starter after losing Justin Verlander to the big-money Mets.

Brown pitched in seven games for the Astros in 2022, posting an ERA of 0.89 and registering 22 strikeouts in the process.

"The Astros, who lost Justin Verlander in free agency, will now lean into their starting pitching depth. Rotation right now is Valdez, Javier, Urquidy, Garcia and rookie Hunter Brown" - brianmctaggart

As of right now, there is no indication of when McCullers will be ready to join the Astros' training. It is speculated that the shutdown might last until mid-March, only after which the management will have a transparent idea of how and when to incorporate their starters into the pitching lineup.

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Hunter Brown is the man of the hour

Hunter Brown has a 0.89 ERA in 20.1 innings of work after being called up to make his MLB debut in September 2022. He followed it up with three scoreless postseason appearances and a 1.082 WHIP.

He will now get the opportunity to prove himself on the pitching staff and could likely be given the chance to join the rotation for the upcoming season. Brown threw 126.1 innings last year between the Astros and Triple-A Sugar Land.

"Throws a curveball in his MLB debut, Hunter Brown is legit!" - BtcNitrobetting

Although Brown's mid-to-upper-90s fastball was the most effective pitch, he also frequently used his slider and swing-and-miss curveball to keep batters off balance.

Whether Brown has the potential to start a game is a key uncertainty. If the Astros so choose, they can give him more Triple-A starts thanks to their depth in the rotation. He should be able to contribute in a high-impact role even if he ends up pitching in relief. But Brown must now make the most of the opportunity and perform well in spring training.