The Astros placed right-handed pitcher Cristian Javier on the 15-day injured list prior to Wednesday’s game against the Mariners and purchased the contract of 29-year-old left-hander Josh Hendrickson.

The Astros vs Mariners matchup on Tuesday, Sept. 22, has the feel of a game defined more by context than by standings. Both teams are expected to be on the outside of the playoff picture soon, which makes every edge matter a little more than usual in an AL West meeting.

Cristian Javier joins Hunter Brown as key Astros starters who are dealing with shoulder strains. Justin Edmonds / Getty Images SEATTLE — Another shoulder strain has staggered the Houston Astros’ starting rotation. Imaging on injured right-hander ...

The stakes weren’t nearly as high as the last time he toed the rubber at Citizens Bank Park, but Cristian Javier looked as comfortable Thursday as he did during his combined no-hitter against the Phillies here in the 2022 World Series.