Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Hunter Brown, Houston Astros starting pitcher, has been sidelined since early April 2026 with a Grade 2 right shoulder strain. He was initially placed on the 15-day IL and subsequently moved to the 60-day IL on May 9, 2026. The Astros are planning for his return in mid-June. Brown was one of the better pitchers in baseball in 2025, posting a 12-9 record with a 2.43 ERA and 1.03 WHIP across 185 1/3 innings. He had recorded 17 strikeouts across 10 2/3 innings in two starts before the injury. He has progressed to throwing bullpen sessions and is approximately one month away from returning to game action.
Strengths
- + Elite pitcher with proven track record (2.43 ERA, 206 K in 2025)
- + Progressing through rehab (throwing bullpens as of mid-May)
- + Expected mid-June return timeline is relatively soon
- + Young at 27 years old with high upside
- + Strong strikeout ability (206 K in 2025, 17 K in 10.2 IP in 2026)
Weaknesses
- - Grade 2 shoulder strain is a significant injury for a pitcher
- - Missed nearly two months of the season already (April-May)
- - Placed on 60-day IL indicating extended recovery needed
- - Astros rotation depth being tested without him
- - Shoulder injuries can be recurring issues for pitchers
Injury Status: IL-60 -- Grade 2 right shoulder strain, sustained April 5, 2026
About
Aaron Brown is a sp for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
SP
Chicago Cubs
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