PT TOMORROW: AL West—Bumps and bullpen issues

Houston Astros

Two-plus weeks into the season, and the Astros aren't anywhere close to establish a fixed 9th inning job. Entering Tuesday, two names—Josh Fields (RHP, HOU) and Chad Qualls (RHP, HOU) have one save apiece while Anthony Bass (RHP, HOU) has two. But the skills are so weak among the current candidates that's important to avoid looking too hard at the saves and save opportunities, most of which has to do with the pen's wear-and-tear, along with manager Bo Porter's willingness to use his best relievers in earlier inning high-leverage match-ups.

In the early season small sample 5 IP, Bass has had just one K. His historical 4+ xERA and sub-2 Cmd don't offer any hope that he can run with an extended opportunity. After a nice...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

This week, we check in on young infielders with upside in S.F. and Arizona, are reintroduced to an old NL West friend in L.A.
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Luke Adams, Cooper Hjerpe, Owen Ayers, and BJ Murray may be among the guys called up to make their MLB debut in the NL Central
Aug 28 2026 3:05am
Angel Genao has been getting plenty of playing time in Cleveland, often at the expense of Brayan Rocchio. Plus, the possible return of Drew Thorpe for CHW, the bullpen outlook in DET, Sal Perez's 2H rebound, and Joe Ryan's recovery in MIN.
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
The A's have been depleted by injuries, but are getting some needed outfield help soon.
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Could George Springer's playing time continue to slip as his struggles continue? Plus, Blaze Alexander nearing a return for BAL, and rotation updates for TB, BOS, and NYY.
Aug 25 2026 3:05am

Tools