Cristian Javier has come a long way since his journey with the Houston Astros began.
Last night, it all culminated in him starting a combined no-hitter for the Astros against the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 4 of the World Series, outdueling Aaron Nola and helping to even the series at two games apiece.
But Javier’s journey has been one for the ages.
He was signed as an international free agent for just $10K before the start of his career.
He began the season in the Astros’ bullpen before moving to the rotation.
He also started a combined no-hitter against the New York Yankees.
Last night, he helped the Astros make World Series history.
Cristian Javier
• signed for $10,000 as international free agent
• started season in Astros bullpen
• earned spot in starting rotation
• started combined no-hitter
against Yankees in June
• 6 no-hit innings in Game 4 of the World Series pic.twitter.com/X2t1SxNBjC— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) November 3, 2022
Nothing has been handed to Javier.
He’s had to earn everything and fight for a job with the Astros.
It certainly hasn’t been an easy road to success for the 25-year-old right-hander.
But now, he has emerged as one of the top young pitchers in all of baseball, going 11-9 during the regular season and posting an ERA of 2.54.
Last night, he started what was a historic Game 4 for the Astros and threw six no-hit innings.
The World Series in now tied at two games apiece and Javier has set up Justin Verlander perfectly for Game 5 as the Astros now look to take a 3-2 series lead back to Houston.
Verlander will look to build on Javier’s success tonight as he faces right-hander Noah Syndergaard in Game 5.
Javier’s performance helped give Houston a little momentum as they head into the fifth game of this Fall Classic.
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