Houston Astros Add Bullpen Help
Updated: May 31
Astros Add Bullpen Help
Written by: LaMarr Fields
The Houston Astros are currently leading the American League West and have made a big-time move upgrading their bullpen. After blowing a seven-run lead on Monday to the Seattle Mariners, the Astros went out and got bullpen help. The Astros bullpen ranks 15th in the majors and currently has 4.15 ERA.
Houston traded for right-handed pitchers Kendall Graveman and Rafael Montero from Seattle. In addition, the Mariners will receive reliever Joe Smith and infielder Abraham Toro.
Graveman was one of the best relievers on the market; this season, he has pitched in 30 games and posted a 0.82 ERA. He also has 10 saves on the season. In addition, Graveman has the lowest WHIP among relievers at 0.70. Also, hitters are only hitting .136 of Graveman. It's shocking the Mariners would trade Graveman because they still are in the playoff hunt.
Coming into the season, Montero was the Mariners closer, but he has struggled this season with a 7.27 ERA in 40 games. Montero has given up 56 hits, and 43 1/3 innings pitched. Last week Montero was designated for assignment. However, Montero has some success in the MLB, and the Astros are hoping a change of scenery will help him turn it around.
This was an excellent trade for the Astros; they needed bullpen help and did not waste any time going to get it. Now we will see if Houston can make a World Series push.