Here are the biggest factors that helped Yusei Kikuchi ascend to another level with Astros

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Here are the biggest factors that helped Yusei Kikuchi ascend to another level with Astros
Yusei Kikuchi has been lights out for the Astros. Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images.

When the Astros traded for Yusei Kikuchi at the trade deadline, most analysts believed Houston was adding to their overall starting pitching depth. Not trading for a difference-maker in the rotation.

Fortunately for the Astros, they saw something that nobody else did. Not only has a change of scenery helped Kikuchi elevate his game, but also the changes he's made to his pitch mix.

You can see in the graphic below that Kikuchi was asked by the Astros to throw less curveballs and fastballs, and throw significantly more sliders. And it's made all the difference in the world.

Photo via: MLB Network/YouTube screenshot.

The Astros certainly deserve credit for knowing how to get the most out of pitchers. And you have to wonder what Blue Jays fans are thinking when they see one of their players leave Toronto and start pitching like a Cy Young candidate over his next ten starts.

Be sure to watch the below below as MLB Network's Chris Young, along with Harold Reynolds and Greg Amsinger, analyzes the adjustments Yusei Kikuchi has made to his pitch usage since joining the Astros, which has resulted in remarkable production.

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How Astros could still be in on Bregman, definitely out on another

The Astros haven't closed the door on a Bregman return. Composite Getty Image.

As we begin another week of free agency, Alex Bregman remains unsigned, but one of the Astros reported targets Anthony Santander has a new home.

Santander has reportedly agreed to a 5-year, $92.5 million contract with the Blue Jays. Many were hoping that the Astros would make a play for the switch hitting power hitter, as he would have provided some serious thump.

Now it appears the Astros will enter the 2025 season with one of the weakness outfields in baseball when it comes to offense.

Speaking of Bregman, Astros manager Joe Espada recently told Fox 26's Nate Griffin that the team is still in contact with Breggy despite General Manger Dana Brown telling the media the team decided to pivot after talks stalled with Bregman's camp.

If there still remains a possibility of Bregman returning, one has to wonder if the Astros reported 6-year, $156 million contract offer is still on the table after the club traded for Isaac Paredes to fill the hole at third base. And if they do make a deal with Bregman, what do they do with Paredes?

Also, now that we know how much money Santander commanded on the open market. Which signing would have benefited the Astros the most? Santander at 5-years, $92.5 million, or Bregman at 6-years, $156 million?

Don't miss the video above as we discuss the possibility of Bregman returning, the Dodgers' absurd free agency (that now involves even more deferred money), Billy Wagner, and much more!

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