PT TOMORROW: AL West—Unsettled closer role in HOU

Houston Astros

While questions remain as to who or what mix will be part of the catcher and left field rotations in the 2H, the closer role appears to be the only immediate issue facing a club that had suddenly reeled off 12 consecutive wins before losing on Wednesday, June 19. At least for now, Mgr A.J. Hinch's preferred choice is Héctor Rondón (RHP, HOU), who has notched four of HOU's five saves this month, and is performing like he wants the job full-time. Owner of a 1.67 ERA (2.94 xERA) and a 162 BPV through 27 IP, Rondon is pitching as well as he did between 2014 and 2016, a three-year period during which he racked up 77 saves for CHC. A 2.0 Ctl (62% FpK) and an overdue hr/f swing in his favor, coupled with a 14% SwK and 47% GB%,...

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