The Houston Astros secured a decisive 9-2 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers, enhancing their momentum in the American League West, where they now trail the division leaders by just 3.5 games. The team is optimistic about the return of several key players from injury, which could significantly bolster their performance this summer. Cristian Javier, who has been sidelined since April 10, is scheduled to face hitters in a rehab assignment with Double-A Corpus Christi, with a target return date in mid-June. Hunter Brown, who finished third in the AL Cy Young Award voting last season, is also on track to pitch soon for Triple-A Sugar Land, potentially returning by the end of June. Additionally, closing pitcher Josh Hader is expected to be activated on Tuesday after completing his rehab assignment, bringing his impressive 2.05 ERA from 2025 back to the Astros' bullpen. The return of these pitchers is anticipated to enhance the team's competitiveness as they strive for a playoff spot.