Lance McCullers Jr. reached out to Christian Walker after he agreed to sign with the Astros, highlighting the camaraderie and positive relationships within the team. Walker noted that he has observed the Astros' competitive edge and energy from the opposing dugout, further fueling his excitement to join the franchise.

Lance McCullers Jr. is currently recovering from injuries, which adds urgency for the Astros to bolster their pitching depth. With the team bringing in Wesneski, they are looking to ensure stability in the rotation as they navigate McCullers' situation along with others like Cristian Javier and Luis Garcia.

Lance McCullers Jr. has not pitched since 2022 due to injury, raising concerns about his reliability in the Astros' rotation. As the team looks to bolster their pitching staff, his absence leaves a significant gap, particularly with Cristian Javier recovering from Tommy John surgery and the overall rotation lacking depth beyond Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown.

Lance McCullers Jr. has been sidelined for two years due to elbow surgery and multiple setbacks. Recently, he has shown progress in his recovery, throwing and feeling healthy, but his return remains contingent on regaining form. If he returns this season, it will likely be with restrictions on his innings, potentially in a hybrid role as both a starter and reliever. He is set to earn $17.7 million in the final two years of his contract.

Lance McCullers Jr. could be a valuable trade target for the Phillies as the Astros seek to fill a potential void in their lineup if Alex Bregman departs. Despite not having pitched in the Major Leagues since 2022, McCullers remains an above-average offensive producer and could serve as a risk worth taking for Philadelphia as a No. 5 starter.