On Friday night, Houston Astros right‑hander Spencer Arrighetti exited his start against the Chicago White Sox in the second inning after a right foot nerve irritation forced him to leave the mound. The injury was first noted during the pre‑game routine. The injury was discovered while he was throwing warm‑up pitches.

Manager Joe Espada and pitching coach Joshua Miller, along with a trainer, visited the mound. After a brief discussion, Arrighetti left the game and was replaced by AJ Blubaugh. He had previously pitched well in the season.

The Astros were trailing 3-0 when the decision was made, and no immediate explanation was given beyond the foot issue. The early exit could affect bullpen strategy.

Arrighetti had been shaky in the first inning, allowing three runs, two hits, two walks and two hit batters over 33 pitches. He entered the game with a 7‑5 record, a 4.60 ERA, and his last win came on May 28, when he was 7‑1. Astros hope Blubaugh can stabilize the pitching.