Houston Astros Announce Star Reliever is Back Amid Multiple Roster Moves

The Houston Astros have announced multiple roster moves that included them activating their star reliever off the injured list.
Aug 2, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Ryan Pressly (55) reacts after getting an out during the eighth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Minute Maid Park
Aug 2, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Ryan Pressly (55) reacts after getting an out during the eighth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Minute Maid Park / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
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There was a major shakeup on the Houston Astros roster when it was reported they had optioned last season's breakout star Chas McCormick to the minors following his prolonged struggles this year.

As the Astros enter the final month before the playoffs, they firmly have their sights set on winning the AL West division for the fourth time in a row, and are readying their roster for another deep postseason run.

With that came the news they brought in veteran outfielder Jason Heyward.

Providing versatility across multiple positions and adding even more experience to this clubhouse heading into the playoffs, the 35-year-old will officially debut with his new team on Thursday following the multiple roster moves Houston announced before the game.

Outside of the McCormick and Heyward news, the other headliner is that Ryan Pressly is returning from his stint on the injured list that has kept him sidelined since Aug. 17 with a lower back strain.

When the Astros brought in Josh Hader to be their closer, Pressly struggled to adjust to his new setup role early during the season.

However, he has rebounded to lower his 5.06 ERA through the month of May to the 3.86 figure he's currently sitting with.

In corresponding moves, Houston optioned reliever Bryan King to their Triple-A affiliate and designated fellow reliever Janson Junk for assignment.

King is the one that might be a bit head-scratching.

In 23 appearances this season, the rookie has posted a 2.05 ERA with 27 strikeouts in 22 innings pitched. Not having him in their bullpen removes a very effective left-handed option manager Joe Espada can turn to like he did on Wednesday.

There's a chance King could rejoin the team as part of the September call up period when rosters expand, but for now, he'll be pitching at the Triple-A level for the foreseeable future.


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Brad Wakai
BRAD WAKAI

Brad Wakai graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Journalism. While an undergrad, he did work at the student radio station covering different Penn State athletic programs like football, basketball, volleyball, soccer and other sports. Brad currently covers the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros for Sports Illustrated/FanNation. He is also the Lead Contributor for Nittany Lions Wire of Gannett Media where he continues to cover Penn State athletics. Brad is the host of the sports podcast I Said What I Said, discussing topics across the NFL, College Football, the NBA and other sports. You can follow him on Twitter: @bwakai