Houston Astros: Three guys who can replace Lance McCullers Jr. in the rotation
By T.A. Mock
Rogelio Armenteros, RHP
Rogelio Armenteros pitched in Cuba’s top league at 17 year’s old in 2011-12. He had an above 9 ERA and wasn’t very impressive. But, he continued to work on his game and in 2014 he signed with the Houston Astros for $40,000.
He pitched very well at all levels of the minor leagues and climbed his way to AAA last season. Last year, he was, statistically, the best pitcher in the Houston Astros minor league system. His 2.04 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, and 146 strikeouts were all tops in the minors.
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Armenteros isn’t an elite arm but, he is a very high floor player that will at worst be a bottom of the rotation guy for a very long time in this league. He mixes in five pitches that are all above average but, none are elite. His changeup is his best pitch.
Armenteros’ best attribute may be his ability to manipulate the zone and therefore the batter’s eye level. He pairs a sinker that falls in the zone that can top out at 92 MPH and a two-seamer that rises and tops out at 95 MPH. He also throws a curveball and slider/cutter that generate swing and misses.
Armenteros is the best option for the Houston Astros to replace McCullers. He has absolutely nothing left to prove in the minors and the Astros need to see what they’ve got in him at the major league level. With McHugh and Dallas Keuchel entering free agency, there is potentially a spot up for grabs next year. This is a great time to see what they’ve got in this youngster.
Calling up Armenteros likely means Cionel Perez will get sent back to AAA Fresno. That’ll bring the Astros bullpen back to the proper number after Osuna’s activation. Armenteros will also allow the team to keep McHugh in that pivotal, clutch long-arm relief role which will prove vital down the stretch.
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Armenteros is the best option though, the other two are solid as well. Seeing what Martin could do in the big leagues is intriguing but, he probably needs a little more seasonings in the minors. Keeping McHugh in the pen is also what is best for the Houston Astros. Look for a decision to be made around mid-week on who will get McCullers’ next start.