Astros Pitcher Spencer Arrighetti Breaks Thumb Before Game

SEATTLE (AP) — Houston Astros right-hander Spencer Arrighetti suffered a broken right thumb on Monday when he was struck by a line drive while warming up in left field before the game against the Seattle Mariners.

Astros manager Joe Espada confirmed Arrighetti’s injury during his pregame media availability, informing reporters that the pitcher is currently undergoing evaluation. The club announced the setback approximately one hour before the series opener against the Mariners at T-Mobile Park.

At 25 years old, Arrighetti has recorded a 1-1 record this season, with a 5.59 ERA across two starts. His most recent outing resulted in five runs and three hits allowed over 3 2/3 innings in a game against the Minnesota Twins.

Arrighetti, selected in the sixth round of the 2021 amateur draft, debuted last year, completing his rookie season with a 7-13 record and a 4.53 ERA over 28 starts and one relief appearance.

The Astros will have to navigate the challenges of a shortened rotation as they assess the impact of Arrighetti’s injury on the team. The timing of the injury raises questions about the team’s depth in pitching and how they will respond moving forward.