On Sunday night, the Houston Astros faced off against the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series. The Astros were hoping to advance to the World Series for the first time since 2017, but their dreams were dashed when their starting pitcher, Cristian Javier, was pulled after recording only one out.
Javier had been a key part of the Astros’ success throughout the playoffs, but he struggled in Game 7. He allowed three runs in the first inning, and his velocity was noticeably lower than usual. After recording only one out, Astros manager Dusty Baker decided to pull him from the game.
The Astros bullpen was unable to contain the Rays’ offense, and the Rays went on to win the game and advance to the World Series. It was a disappointing end to what had been a promising season for the Astros, and it was especially heartbreaking for Javier.
Javier had been a key part of the Astros’ success throughout the playoffs, and he had been expected to be a major contributor in Game 7. Unfortunately, he was unable to deliver, and it cost the Astros a chance at a World Series appearance.
It was a difficult end to what had been a great season for Javier. Despite his struggles in Game 7, he still had a great year overall. He finished with a 3.48 ERA and struck out over 100 batters in only 67 innings pitched.
Javier will now have to wait until next season to try and help the Astros get back to the World Series. He will certainly be motivated to make sure that he is at his best when the time comes.
