Houston Astros Still Have Battle For This Position
The Houston Astros head into the 2024 season with an essentially set roster. With a veteran team and players who have been in the organization for multiple years now, there aren't many storylines in Spring Training.
While much has stayed the same, the Astros did lose Hector Neris, Ryne Stanek, and Phil Maton this offseason. Losing three veteran relievers who proved to be able to get outs at a high level will hurt Houston more than many think.
Signing Josh Hader certainly helps fill that void as they offer the best 7-8-9 punch in baseball with Bryan Abreu, Ryan Pressly, and Hader.
However, there are concerns about who the final bullpen spots will go to.
According to MLB.com, the Astros still have a battle to determine the final spots in the bullpen during Spring Training.
They write that there are four jobs still open, adding that Brandon Bielak and Seth Martinez are in positions to make the team. Houston also likes Bennett Sousa, a left-handed pitcher.
If those three make the team, Dylan Coleman, Oliver Ortega, Tayler Scott, Joel Kuhnel, Wander Suero, and Parker Mushinski would compete for the final spot.
All could give them different looks in the bullpen, making it come down to what the front office wants.
Given the talent the Astros have put out on the field throughout much of the past decade, it's safe to trust the front office and coaching staff when it comes to deciding which players make the team.
No matter the decision, it's something to look for with the season approaching.
