The Houston Astros received great news earlier this week when starting pitcher Justin Verlander was able to return to the mound, throwing for the first time in 72 days after battling neck discomfort.
The Astros are very happy to have him back in the team, but not all the injury news is positive. Another pitcher they had hoped could give the team a boost in the second half, Penn Murfee, suffered a setback.
Murfee began his rehab last week and made his first appearance for the franchise, but unfortunately he is now suspended due to “recurring right elbow discomfort,” according to Matt Kawahara of The Houston Chronicle.
Murfee underwent Tommy John surgery last July while a member of the Seattle Mariners. It was an unfortunate turn of events, as he had excelled as the team’s bullpen player.
In 80 games and 83.1 innings pitched, Murfee posted an excellent 2.70 ERA with 92 strikeouts. Before his injury, Murfee was one of the most dominant relief pitchers in baseball during the 2023 season. He posted a 1.29 ERA in 16 appearances and 14 innings before being knocked out.
Now 30 and in limbo, Murfeee’s career is in limbo. After the 2023 season, he was placed on waivers by the Mariners and signed by the New York Mets.
Murfee didn’t stay with the Mets long, as he was eventually signed by the Atlanta Braves. After some roster maneuvering, he landed on waivers again and ended up with the Astros.
“It’s not ideal,” manager Joe Espada said. “It’s unfortunate because I know he’s worked really hard. He wants to get on the field, he wants to throw for us this season. I still expect him to get it done. We just need to slow him down a little bit here and see how he feels. Right now, it’s day by day.”
Espada has left the door open for Murfee to return this season. Houston is planning another long run in the postseason and could use all the help they can get, especially in the bullpen.
Even if Murfee doesn’t return to the team in 2024, he’s someone who could be part of their long-term plans. He would remain under the team’s control for four more seasons after this season, and given his good performance in 2022 and 2023 with Seattle, he’s someone worth keeping if he gets healthy.
