Underdog Reliever Hopes to Contribute for Houston Astros This Season

The Houston Astros took a lottery ticket on Matt Gage when they claimed him off of waivers. Now, he is looking to contribute to the MLB club in a significant way.

The Houston Astros took a chance when they recently claimed left-handed pitcher Matt Gage off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays.

Gage is with his sixth organization since the San Francisco Giants selected him out of Siena College in the 10th round of the 2014 MLB Draft.

Gage is hoping this latest stop will last a while.

“It’s amazing,” Gage told MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart. “I’m coming over from a competitive organization to a competitive organization, and taking advantage of my opportunity is really what I'm looking for. Honestly, just coming into this locker room and seeing what these guys were able to accomplish last year and trying to be a part of that, it's amazing.

“So I'm just looking forward to playing my role when I get called upon and try to do my best for (general manager) Dana (Brown) and (manager) Dusty (Baker) and the organization.”

The 30-year-old Gage pitched for the Blue Jays and also at Triple-A Buffalo last season. He made 11 appearances for the Blue Jays, the first Major League appearances in his career, posting a 1.38 ERA and a 0.92 WHIP in 13 innings

Gage spent the majority of the year at Triple A, going 2-2 with 12 saves and a 2.34 ERA in 42 1/3 innings in 41 games.

He believes that with his array of pitches, he’ll be able to secure a spot in the Astros bullpen.

“I am completely OK with being in Triple-A, and whenever they need me in the big leagues, coming up and going down,” Gage said. “That’s the same role I had with the Jays, and I was OK with it. Everyone needs to do their role, and to win a championship, these guys did that really well last year. … I’m playing with house money. It was all about getting here, so whatever happens, I’m OK with it.” 

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