Astros focus on bullpen issues amid Tarik Skubal trade rumors
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 8:02 PM
Last updated Jun 16, 2026
The Houston Astros, currently fourth in the AL West at 33-41, face significant challenges with their bullpen. Despite the return of closer Josh Hader from injury, the unit struggles to maintain leads, with Bryan Abreu holding a 6.66 ERA. Houston has been mentioned as a potential trade destination for pitcher Tarik Skubal, but adding a frontline starter won't resolve the bullpen's volatility. General Manager Dana Brown confirmed the team is looking to buy at the trade deadline, indicating a need to address both starting depth and late-inning relief.
- •Astros bullpen is struggling, especially in late innings.
- •Josh Hader has returned, but other relievers are inconsistent.
- •Bryan Abreu has a 6.66 ERA, posing a risk for leads.
- •Astros mentioned as fit for Tarik Skubal trade.
- •General Manager Dana Brown confirmed team's buyers at deadline.
- 8:02 PMYahoo Sports — Forget Skubal — the Astros need to fix their bullpen before anything else
"Trading for Tarik Skubal won't save the Astros if their exhausted bullpen keeps throwing away leads in the eighth inning.
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