Astros Veteran Delivers on Mound When Needed Most

The Houston Astros got a big outing from their veteran when they needed him most to keep their AL West hopes alive.

Pitching has been a major issue for the Houston Astros in recent weeks.

The starting rotation has put the team in chase mode with early deficits that the bats haven't been able to make up.

With struggling pitcher Christian Javier on the mound for the finale against the Baltimore Orioles, that scenario was a major possibility for the Astros once again Wednesday.

Instead, the veteran delivered one of his best starts of the year when the team needed him most.

Facing a home sweep, Javier threw five innings, allowing only one run in the first inning on three hits. He also struck out 11 batters, which tied for his season high.

This outing comes after he had given up three or more runs in seven of his last nine starts since July 28.

Houston eventually was able to overcome the deficit in this game with a walk off single in the bottom of the ninth inning by Mauricio Dubon.

It turns out it was an important victory for the Astros, who entered the game a half game up on the Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners, who both won their games on Wednesday.

Javier has been an important part of Houston's pitching staff during their playoff runs the past two seasons, both coming out of the bullpen and as a starter.

He's expected to be in a starting role this postseason, but his 4.64 ERA is cause for concern, especially paired with the struggles of their two rookie pitchers to close the year.

This outing could go a long way for not only his confidence, but the confidence that manager Dusty Baker will show in him going forward.