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

As MLB heads into the All-Star Break, a look at some forgotten players from the AL East who will try to regain relevance in the second half, featuring Heston Kjerstad, Paul Blackburn, and more.
Jul 14 2026 3:06am
This week, we take some time to check in on previous PT Tomorrow darlings whom we're no longer excited about while giving some playing time updates in San Diego and Arizona.
Jul 11 2026 3:06am
Lara should play; where will that playing time come from?
Jul 10 2026 3:05am
In a surprising development, Austin Hedges suddenly has positive fantasy value. Plus, Murakami's return in CHW, another Max prospect in DET, more bullpen issues for KC, and Woo-Suk Go intrigue in MIN.
Jul 9 2026 3:06am
With Brent Rooker out for the season, Carlos Cortes could be back in the playing time mix in Sacramento.
Jul 8 2026 3:05am

Tools