Houston Astros: Three keys to winning the AL West pennant
By T.A. Mock
Finish games strong
The Houston Astros knew the bullpen needed help in the offseason. The went out and signed Joe Smith and Hector Rondon to help alleviate this weakness. Collin McHugh also shifted to a full-time bullpen role.
These additions have indeed helped but, the bullpen has still faltered. Former bullpen ace, Chris Devenski, was struggling majorly before an injury landed him on the DL. Prior to heading to the DL, Devo’s ERA had ballooned to almost double his career average. Fortunately, he is on a rehab assignment and is pitching well, he should be back soon.
After Ken Giles began to blow up, the Houston Astros shifted Hector Rondon to the closer role. He performed quite admirably, for a time. He’s notched 13 saves for the Astros but, he’s been on a streak of blowing games recently.
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It appears no one in the bullpen is pitching particularly well at the moment. Brad Peacock has had his fair share of busted games. McHugh has been the best pitcher out of the pen and even he has had his fair of mishaps, including Monday night.
If the Houston Astros are going to win the AL West pennant they’re going to need to finish games strong. That goes anywhere from 6th inning relief to closing out games. It may be time to see what Roberto Osuna has in the closer role.