Luis Garcia exits with elbow discomfort in second start back from Tommy John rehab
Right-hander left after 28 pitches in Astros’ 4-3, 10-inning loss at Toronto; team awaiting evaluation
HOUSTON — Houston Astros right-hander Luis Garcia left Tuesday night’s game in the second inning with elbow discomfort, just his second start since returning from Tommy John surgery rehabilitation, raising immediate concerns about the club’s pitching depth.
Garcia threw 28 pitches before signaling to the Astros’ bullpen and pointing to his elbow after an 88 mph, 1-1 pitch that missed the zone to Toronto infielder Ernie Clement. Manager Joe Espada and a team trainer came out to check on Garcia, and the right-hander was removed shortly afterward. The Astros ultimately fell to the Blue Jays, 4-3, in 10 innings at Rogers Centre on Sept. 9, 2025.
"It was a punch to the gut. He’s worked so hard to get back," Espada said after the game. "Just to see him call us and point to his elbow, it’s tough. [AJ] Blubaugh came in and picked us up. Did a terrific job, but again the Luis blow, for the team and for him personally." Espada told reporters he had no additional information on Garcia’s condition, according to The Athletic.
Garcia declined to speak with reporters and, through a team spokesperson, said he wanted to wait until he knew the full extent of the issue before commenting. AJ Blubaugh relieved Garcia and was credited with keeping the game within reach before Houston fell in extras.
Garcia underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2023 and endured a lengthy, setback-filled recovery that delayed his return to the mound until Sept. 1. In his first outing back earlier this month, Garcia pitched six innings and allowed three runs. His early exit Tuesday represents a rapid reversal after a 28-month rehabilitation process.
The premature departure compounds concerns for a Houston rotation that has dealt with injuries this season. The club did not immediately outline plans for further testing or a timetable for updates.
The Astros will provide additional information as medical evaluations are completed and decisions are made about Garcia’s next steps. For now, Houston is left to assess the health of a pitcher who had just begun to reestablish himself in the major-league rotation.