Battered Astros’ Pitching Staff Gets More Bad News: Ronel Blanco Needs Surgery

The right-hander will have Tommy John surgery, as did three teammates before him. Another starter has been out with a thumb injury.

Ronel Blanco of the Houston Astros delivers a pitch during his no-hitter against the Toronto Blue Jays in Houston on April 1, 2024. Kevin M. Cox/AP Photo

Houston Astros pitcher Ronel Blanco’s season will end prematurely due to upcoming Tommy John surgery.

The veteran right-hander has been on the injured list since last week, and he hasn’t pitched since May 17 due to elbow inflammation. Blanco had a 3–4 record and a 4.10 ERA with 48 strikeouts before the injury.