The Houston Astros received difficult news yesterday after it was announced Michael Brantley would miss the remainder of the 2022 season due to injury. But Houston fans received a positive update on Lance McCullers Jr on Saturday. The Astros announced that McCullers would be activated from the 60-day IL and will be starting against the Oakland Athletics, per MLB Trade Rumors.

McCullers Jr had been out due to a forearm ailment. He originally suffered the injury during the 2021 postseason and has not pitched since. Although his return is great news for the Astros, the right-hander did not look sharp during his rehab start. McCullers Jr was hit hard in a Triple-A outing and his velocity was down.

With that being said, this is a pitcher who's missed almost an entire year. So Houston needs to patient with him. He will have a little over one month and a half to build up strength and prepare for the postseason.

The Astros pitching rotation has been impressive this season. They've displayed a combination of talent and depth which has been a crucial aspect of their overall success. Lance McCullers Jr represents another option for Dusty Baker and this ball club.

In reference to the aforementioned Michael Brantley injury, there is a good chance that Trey Mancini begins seeing more time in the outfield. Astros GM James Click said the team has been working with Mancini in left field. He isn't a strong defender, but Houston will be happy as long as Mancini makes the routine plays.