Ronel Blanco Makes 2026 MLB Debut After Elbow Surgery
The Astros right-hander is back in the rotation over a year after undergoing right elbow surgery, making five minor league rehab appearances first.
Ronel Blanco is set to start for Houston against Miami on July 20, 2026, marking his first major league appearance since May 17, 2025. He underwent right elbow surgery during the 2025 season and spent time rehabbing in the minors this June, logging five appearances before being activated. Prior to the injury, Blanco was a reliable rotation piece, posting an 18-11 record and 3.36 ERA across 45 starts from 2023-25. His return is a meaningful rotation upgrade for the Astros.
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