Astros' Tatsuya Imai set for increased role as August usage declines

Houston Astros pitcher Tatsuya Imai has made only three appearances in August, prompting manager Joe Espada to advise him to 'stay ready' amid a busy schedule of 13 consecutive games without an off day. Since his last start on July 27, Imai has been utilized in relief, not as a traditional reliever, despite the bullpen's heavy workload this month. Espada indicated Imai will have opportunities to contribute, though specific roles have yet to be defined. Imai's struggles this season include a 5.83 ERA over 15 starts, contributing to the Astros using a franchise-record 17 different starting pitchers. Hunter Brown is set to start for Houston in its upcoming series against the Mets.

• 12:13 AMYahoo Sports — Houston Astros tell pitcher Tatsuya Imai to 'stay ready' despite little usage of late