How Astros now find themselves threading unfamiliar needle down the stretch

WALKING THE TIGHTROPE

One of the biggest strengths for the Houston Astros in 2022 was their incredible bullpen. Heading into this season, it was expected that would be the case once again, but many pitchers have not been able to replicate that success in 2023.

While Dusty Baker has received criticism for his lineups regularly, he's done as much as can be expected with his relief pitchers. At times, Phil Maton, Rafael Montero, and Ryne Stanek have been unusable. Which has caused a higher level of fatigue for the guys Dusty can count on.

Recently, Baker gave Ryan Pressly several days off as he was dealing with soreness, and that paid big dividends. The Astros closer rewarded the team with a huge save in their first game against the Orioles on Tuesday night.

And now we're seeing starter JP France make some relief appearances as well. But would he be better suited staying in the rotation?

Be sure to watch the video above as we examine how the Astros can best maneuver the challenges they face done the stretch with their relief pitching.

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We have a trade! Composite Getty Image.

There’s been plenty of buzz about the Texans making moves during this year’s draft, and they didn’t waste any time proving it true.

Just hours before the 2025 NFL Draft kicks off, Houston has pulled off a trade with the Cleveland Browns.

Houston is sending a 2025 5th round pick and a 2027 5th round pick to Cleveland in exchange for two 2025 6th round picks and one 2025 7th round selection.

While it's no certainty, it sure seems the Texans are trying to acquire as much capital as possible in the 2025 Draft to help them maneuver up and down the board over the next three days.

Texans GM Nick Caserio has a reputation as a wheeler and dealer, and this year is clearly no exception.

Will the Texans use this capital to move up in the first round? We're about to find out!

Go Texans!

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