Astros rotation struggles with record 19 starters in 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 11, 2026, 12:00 PM
Last updated Oct 11, 2026
In 2026, the Houston Astros set a franchise record by using 19 starters, struggling with injuries and inconsistent performance. Despite a playoff appearance, they led MLB in walks and had one of the highest rotation ERAs. Peter Lambert emerged as a key contributor but overall the rotation faltered, prompting questions about its competitiveness moving forward. The Astros did not pursue additional starting options at the trade deadline, relying on a mix of call-ups and openers down the stretch. Looking ahead, the team will need to reassess its pitching strategy this offseason.
- •Houston used 19 different starters, a franchise high.
- •Peter Lambert led the rotation with 155⅔ innings and 3.1 bWAR.
- •Astros starters had an 11.2% walk rate, highest in MLB.
- •Hunter Brown posted a 3.19 ERA but missed significant time with injury.
- •The team did not acquire pitchers at the trade deadline.
- 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — Houston Astros roster analysis: Rotation. 19 starters, failed additions and questions ahead
"Houston used a franchise-record 19 starters in 2026, and its rotation led MLB in walks. Peter Lambert stood out; Tatsuya Imai's future is a key question.
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