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Here's why Astros actually have some good options to reinforce their pen
Jul 20, 2023, 5:33 pm
Here’s why Astros actually have some good options to reinforce their pen
With the trade deadline quickly approaching, the Astros have some room for improvement in several key areas.
With that in mind, should the team covet bullpen help over a left-handed bat, with Yordan Alvarez and Jose Altuve expected back soon to give the offense a lift?
Considering the massive amount of innings already piled up by Astros relievers, and the underwhelming performances from Rafael Montero and Ryne Stanek, one could argue that adding to the bullpen could be just what the doctor ordered.
Be sure to check out the video above as we discuss some legit options for the Astros to acquire before the deadline.
And because you've been good, we'll let you know who we think the Astros should consider below.
Be sure to check out the video above as we discuss how former Astros pitchers Kendall Graveman, Jose Cisnero, or Cardinals closer Jordan Hicks could help put the team over the top, depending on how much trade capital Houston wants to deal away.
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Oswald Peraza hit a two-run single in the ninth inning to help the Los Angeles Angels snap a three-game losing skid by beating the Houston Astros 4-1 on Saturday night.
Peraza entered the game as a defensive replacement in the seventh inning and hit a bases-loaded fly ball to deep right field that eluded the outstretched glove of Cam Smith. It was the fourth straight hit off Astros closer Bryan Abreu (3-4), who had not allowed a run in his previous 12 appearances.
The Angels third run of the ninth inning scored when Mike Trout walked with the bases loaded.
Kyle Hendricks allowed one run while scattering seven hits over six innings. He held the Astros to 1 for 8 with runners in scoring position, the one hit coming on Jesús Sánchez’s third-inning infield single that scored Jeremy Peña.
Reid Detmers worked around a leadoff walk to keep the Astros scoreless in the seventh, and José Fermin (3-2) retired the side in order in the eighth before Kenley Jansen worked a scoreless ninth to earn his 24th save.
Houston’s Spencer Arrighetti struck out a season-high eight batters over 6 1/3 innings. The only hit he allowed was Zach Neto’s third-inning solo home run.
Yordan Alvarez had two hits for the Astros, who remained three games ahead of Seattle for first place in the AL West.
Key moment
Peraza’s two-run single to deep right field that broke a 1-1 tie in the ninth.
Key Stat
Opponents were 5 for 44 against Abreu in August before he allowed four straight hits in the ninth.
Up next
Astros RHP Hunter Brown (10-6, 2.37 ERA) faces RHP José Soriano (9-9, 3.85) when the series continues Sunday.