Astros consider AJ Blubaugh for 8th inning role
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 5:21 PM
Last updated Jun 26, 2026
The Houston Astros are evaluating AJ Blubaugh as a potential setup man amid bullpen struggles. Blubaugh's performance includes a 3.66 ERA over 32 games this season. Manager Joe Espada has heavily relied on him, especially for multiple-inning outings, with 20 of 32 games featuring this usage. Analysts are debating whether to increase his role as the Astros aim for a playoff push in the ongoing season.
- •AJ Blubaugh has a 3.66 ERA in 32 games this season.
- •He has been used in multiple-inning outings 20 times.
- •Blubaugh's ERA improves to 2.43 when excluding two poor appearances.
- •Joe Espada's managerial strategies are under scrutiny.
- •Astros are looking for solutions in their bullpen ahead of the deadline.
- 5:21 PMYahoo Sports — Have the Astros found their 8th inning guy?
"Have the Astros already found their setup man before the deadline?
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