The Houston Astros' rotation has been hit hard by injuries once again, as Cristian Javier becomes the latest player to be placed on the injured list (IL) due to a neck problem. Manager Joe Espada confirmed the news on Sunday, revealing that Javier will join five other Houston starters who have already spent time on the IL this season.

The Astros had high hopes for their rotation this year, but injuries have plagued the team. Currently, four projected members of the rotation are sidelined, including Javier. However, there was a bright spot as ace Justin Verlander returned from the IL on Friday and delivered an impressive performance against the Washington Nationals.

Javier was scheduled to start in Sunday's series finale at Nationals Park but was scratched due to neck discomfort. In his place, Hunter Brown started on regular rest. General Manager Dana Brown downplayed the severity of Javier's injury, emphasizing the team's caution and the need to approach the season as a long, grueling marathon.

Javier emerged as one of Houston's most reliable starters in April, allowing just four earned runs in his first four starts while striking out 18 batters in 23 1/3 innings. His absence adds to the growing list of injured pitchers, which includes Lance McCullers Jr., Luis Garcia, José Urquidy, and Framber Valdez.

The Astros remain hopeful that Valdez will be able to return to the rotation during their current eight-game road trip, but no specific pitching plans beyond Brown's start have been announced. Both McCullers and Garcia are not expected to return until around the All-Star break, while Urquidy is still in the process of recovering from a forearm strain suffered during spring training.

In response to Javier's injury, the team will bring up top pitching prospect Spencer Arrighetti to take his place on the active roster. Arrighetti previously made two starts during his first stint in the major leagues, but struggled, allowing nine earned runs in seven innings. However, the Astros believe he will be able to contribute effectively in Javier's absence.

As the injuries continue to mount for the Houston Astros, the team will need to rely on their depth and young pitching prospects to fill the gaps in the rotation. With the season still in its early stages, the Astros are hoping that their injured starters can recover in time to make a significant impact later in the year.