Houston Astros Oct 12, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; View of the Houston Astros team logo on the field during workouts at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Astros got the news they feared most about Luis Garcia.

The club announced Friday the talented right-hander needs Tommy John surgery.

Garcia had to come out of the team’s game Monday against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning after facing just two batters.

Recovery from Tommy John surgery varies among pitchers, but the standard timetable has Garcia sidelined until midseason 2024.

It’s been a tough week for the Astros’ pitching staff. Starter José Urquidy went on the IL Monday and has been shut down from throwing for 10 days for inflammation near his armpit.

The Astros have called up J.P. France, who will get the start and make his MLB debut Saturday.

Garcia won 15 games for the Astros in 2022, posting a 3.72 ERA (3.90 FIP). He had a 4.00 ERA in six starts this season.

The Astros have already been dealing with the loss of All-Star second baseman José Altuve, who fractured his thumb in the World Baseball Classic. He has been cleared to resume baseball activities.

Astros manager Dusty Baker questioned aloud this week what many Houston fans have already wondered, given Garcia and Urquidy also played in the WBC.

“I just hate to think that some of our guys, especially the Latin guys, went to the WBC, are coming up lame and I’m just hoping that wasn’t part of the cause and the problem,” Baker said (via Mark Berman of KRIV Fox 26).

[Chandler Rome, The Athletic]

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.