Houston Astros fans are patiently waiting for the return of several injured players in the second half as the team has a chance to make a deep playoff run if everything goes according to plan.
Earlier this week, fans saw the team reinstate starting pitcher Spencer Arrighetti from the 60-day injured list after missing four months with a fractured thumb. Arrighetti’s return to the big leagues wasn’t great, as he got torched by the Miami Marlins on Wednesday for 11 hits and five earned runs in 3.2 innings pitched.
The Astros went on to lose that game, 6-4, failing to secure the three-game sweep. That said, Houston fans are at least somewhat satisfied that they are getting healthy. Now, the next pitcher on the list to join Arrighetti is Luis Garcia.
Garcia has not pitched in a major league game in over two years after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Earlier this season, Astros GM Dana Brown said that the 28-year-old’s target return would be in “late July, early August,” per Brian McTaggart of MLB.com.
Astros GM Dana Brown today with @SeanUnfiltered on@SportsTalk790 said Luis Garcia is on target to return in "late July, early August."
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) May 28, 2025
In addition to his recovery from Tommy John surgery, Garcia dealt with elbow inflammation back in spring, which was a notable setback. However, it appears the veteran right-handed hurler is taking the necessary steps towards a return this season.
Luis Garcia Takes Monumental Step in Return to Mound for 2025
On Thursday, Garcia made his second rehab start at Triple-A Sugar Land after pitching in the lower levels of the Astros’ farm system last month. The veteran pitcher threw four innings and did not allow a run or walk, while only giving up three hits and striking out seven.
Luis Garcia's line tonight:
— Sugar Land Space Cowboys (@SLSpaceCowboys) August 8, 2025
4.0 IP, 0 R, 3 H, 0 BB, 7 K
👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/oHjF3Vsf0K
It was the first time that Garcia went at least four innings in a rehab start, which is a good sign about a pending return to the big leagues. He also threw 59 pitches (37 strikes) in this recent start, surpassing what he did in his previous outing.
After having one of his better performances in the minors, it will be interesting to see if he can replicate this performance in his next start, presumably in six days. If Garcia can get through four innings again, or even more. He might be ready to make his return to Houston, giving the 'Stros another weapon in their rotation.