The Houston Astros’ starting rotation was anything but boring last season, marked by both significant injury struggles and outstanding individual performances.
Could they choose to bring it back, minus Yusei Kikuchi, next season?
According to Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report, that’s a possibility. With top-tier pitchers demanding too much money and the offense still uncertain, re-signing key players, including a franchise icon, may be their best move. When healthy, their rotation remains one of the league’s finest.
Potential depth starters include Luis García, who missed 2024 due to injury but could rejoin the rotation; Colton Gordon, who has impressed in the minors; Ryan Gusto, a similar depth option; and A.J. Blubaugh, who has higher potential than the others.
- RHP Justin Verlander would be the biggest free-agent signing if the Astros bring him back. Despite a rough 2024, it was his first truly bad season, and a bounce-back could provide big rewards. If it doesn’t work, Houston can pivot to García.
- RHP Spencer Arrighetti showed promise late in 2024, posting a 3.18 ERA in his final 12 appearances, making him a solid fourth starter.
- RHP Ronel Blanco emerged as a surprise with a no-hitter in his debut and sustained strong play throughout the year, proving to be another gem from Houston’s international scouting.
- RHP Hunter Brown bounced back from a tough 2023, improving his overall performance with a 3.49 ERA, solidifying his spot in the rotation.
- LHP Framber Valdez, in the final year of team control, had one of his best seasons, including a 1.91 ERA over his last 13 starts, making him a player the Astros cannot afford to lose.
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