Injured Astros Ace Should Be Respected, Not Chastised

It’s a good thing the Houston Astros aren’t a fan-run club.

Otherwise, the entire team — along with general manager Dusty Baker — would already be canned.

Thankfully, that’s not the case.

Yet regardless, fans can be brutally critical.

Such is the case with injured pitcher Lance McCullers Jr.

This guy has done nothing short of giving his heart, soul, sweat and tears into the City of Houston and the franchise.

He was a pivotal part in bringing both World Series titles to Houston, and he’s been a remarkable pitcher for the Astros almost every time he takes the hill.

But search his name on just about any social media site and you’ll get mostly negative comments on McCullers, with many fans calling for an end to his tenure with Houston or referring to him as worthless or weak in some form or fashion.

Those words and criticism are not even remotely true when it comes to McCullers.

McCullers is a pillar of love and passion in Houston, and his perseverance is remarkable.

He’s the epitome of what the Astros brass are looking for when it comes to a players activity and attitude both on and off the field of play.

And he’s also just as upset about the setback as Houston fans.

“I know the fans want to see me out there pitching and proving my end of the bargain to the team,” McCullers told MLB.com on Saturday. “I feel a big responsibility to the Astros, to Mr. Crane and to the fans to be out there and be pitching at the front of our rotation and I haven't been able to do that.”

Fortunately, McCullers did not have to go through Tommy John surgery for a second time and he should be back by spring training and ready to roll for the 2024 MLB season.

McCullers deserves to be respected, and not chastised, as he embarks on a journey to return to the pinnacle of pitching in the Majors.

He's earned it.