Astros’ Arrighetti Breaks Thumb: What’s Next for Houston’s Rotation?

By Oliver Wiener July 02, 2025 05:43

The Houston Astros received a tough blow as right-hander Spencer Arrighetti suffered a broken thumb, forcing the team to reassess its pitching rotation amid an already demanding 2025 campaign. Arrighetti, who emerged as a key part of Houston’s rotation last season, is expected to miss significant time, leaving a void that the Astros must fill to maintain their competitive edge.

Arrighetti’s 2024 rookie season showed promise as he made 28 starts, pitching 145 innings with a 4.53 ERA and tallying 171 strikeouts. Notably, he improved markedly in the second half of the season, lowering his ERA from 5.63 before the All-Star break to 3.18 afterward, demonstrating his ability to adjust and develop at the major league level. His presence in the rotation was vital for the Astros, who relied on a deep and versatile pitching staff to navigate injuries and heavy workloads.

The broken thumb injury puts Arrighetti on the injured list, and while the Astros have not provided a definitive timetable for his return, typical recovery for such injuries ranges from six to eight weeks, depending on severity and rehabilitation progress. This absence comes at a challenging time, as the Astros’ rotation has already been tested by injuries to key arms like Cristian Javier, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, and Lance McCullers Jr., sidelined since 2023 due to flexor tendon surgery and setbacks.

Houston’s rotation heading into 2025 featured several reliable starters. Left-hander Framber Valdez remains the staff ace, coming off a 15-7 season with a 2.91 ERA over 176 innings. Hunter Brown, after a breakout 2024, has established himself as a frontline starter with a 2.51 ERA in his last 25 starts. Ronel Blanco, who threw the season’s first no-hitter, also anchors the rotation with a 2.80 ERA. The Astros supplemented their rotation with the acquisition of right-hander Hayden Wesneski, expected to fill out the back end of the rotation alongside prospects like Colton Gordon and Ryan Gusto.

General manager Dana Brown and manager Dusty Baker face the challenge of adjusting the rotation mix to compensate for Arrighetti’s injury. The Astros have a history of creatively managing their pitching staff, often turning to their deep minor league system or bullpen arms to bridge gaps. Brandon Walter, a left-hander with starting experience, could see an expanded role, while the team may also consider calling up promising arms from Triple-A Sugar Land.

Dusty Baker emphasized the team’s resilience, stating,

“We’ve been through a lot with injuries, but this group knows how to step up. We’ll find a way to keep the rotation strong and keep competing.”

The Astros’ pitching staff ranked seventh in MLB in ERA last season (3.81) and third in strikeouts (887), but they also led the league in walks, highlighting an area for improvement. Maintaining control and consistency will be critical as they navigate Arrighetti’s absence.

Spencer Arrighetti’s broken thumb presents a significant hurdle for the Astros’ rotation, but Houston’s depth and managerial experience provide a foundation to weather the storm. With Valdez, Brown, Blanco, and Wesneski leading the charge, and emerging prospects ready to contribute, the Astros remain well-positioned to adapt and continue their pursuit of another postseason run. The next few weeks will be crucial as the team balances recovery timelines and roster adjustments to sustain their winning momentum.