The Astros have seen their fair share of bad umpiring over the years, from Angel Hernandez to Joe West, but this week things seemed to escalate to another level when Jerry Layne got in the face of Jeremy Pena.
Pena took exception to a pitch that was clearly out of the zone, which was called a strike, and hitting coach Alex Cintron was ejected for defending Pena. The altercation even made national news, with outlets picking up the story across the country.
This is just the latest example the Astros have experienced. Even going back to the 2022 playoffs, the Astros dealt with a different strike zone when they went on the road to play the Mariners, Yankees, and Phillies.
It's gotten to the point where even the broadcasters calling the game have openly accepted that the home team was going to get calls in their favor from the umpires. The strike zone should not change based on where the game is being played.
So how does this get fixed? MLB is currently testing out two different systems in the minors that could be implemented in the big leagues in the next year or two. One system uses computer technology to call all balls and strikes, while the other operates with a challenge system.
Be sure to check out the video above as we discuss which system will be the best option going forward, how soon it will be implemented, and much more!
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Listen to The Bench with John Granato and Lance Zierlein weekday mornings on ESPN 97.5 and 92.5 FM.
Astros starter Hunter Brown had a breakout season in 2024, after struggling mightily in 2023, when he posted an ERA over five. And while that's good news for the team heading into 2025, it could present some challenges when looking at the big picture.
That's because we're already hearing speculation that Brown won't be willing to sign an extension with the Astros, preferring to wait until free agency to entertain any long-term contract offers. Some reports indicate Brown had interest in signing a deal last year, but Houston may have missed their window. It's hard to blame the Astros front office for not offering Brown an extension after a miserable 2023 season, but could this development change how the Astros operate moving forward?
Brown won't be a free agent until 2029, so it's not like he's going anywhere anytime soon. But his hiring of Scott Boras suggests he's not looking to give Houston a hometown discount.
Astros ace Framber Valdez is only one season away from free agency, and based on what the market is telling us, he will likely command a contract in the $200 million range. And while his resume is certainly better than Brown's, he's five years older than Hunter, and has a lower strikeout rate.
So if we're projecting forward, which pitcher has more value? Brown is younger and has incredible upside, but he also only has one good season under his belt. While Framber has been one of the most consistent pitchers in baseball since 2020.
Don't miss the video above as ESPN Houston's John Granato and Lance Zierlein debate which pitcher has more value, and how that could impact the way the Astros manage their young players moving forward.
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