Astros Pitcher McCullers Struggles Again in Loss to Cardinals

The right-hander has been a disappointment for Houston early in the season.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 1:07pm

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Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. had another rough outing on Saturday, allowing four earned runs on four hits and three walks while striking out four over five innings in a loss to the St. Louis Cardinals. McCullers has now given up three or more earned runs in each of his last three starts, contributing to his 6.20 ERA and 1.33 WHIP through four outings this season.

Why it matters

McCullers was expected to be a key part of the Astros' starting rotation this year, but his early struggles have been a disappointment for the team and fantasy managers who drafted him. The Astros will need McCullers to turn things around if they want to remain competitive in the AL West.

The details

In Saturday's game, McCullers struggled to miss bats, recording just four strikeouts. He has a 2.33 K/BB ratio so far this season, a significant drop from his career 3.24 K/BB ratio. The Astros will hope McCullers can regain his form and become a reliable starter again.

  • McCullers made his start on Saturday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Lance McCullers Jr.

A right-handed starting pitcher for the Houston Astros.

Joe Espada

The manager of the Houston Astros.

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What they’re saying

“McCullers Jr. has struggled to miss opposing bats of late, allowing three or more earned runs in each of his last three starts. The right-hander has been one of many disappointing options in the Houston rotation early in the season for manager Joe Espada.”

— Chris Schommer, Astros Correspondent

The takeaway

McCullers' early-season struggles are a concern for the Astros, who will need him to regain his form if they want to remain competitive in the AL West. The team and fantasy managers will be closely monitoring his progress in the coming starts.