Houston Astros monitor bullpen usage as rotation limitations persist

The Houston Astros face rotation challenges with 19 games remaining in the regular season as reliance on the bullpen increases. Pitchers Cristian Javier and Ethan Pecko are currently working under strict workload limitations, rarely facing opposing lineups more than twice per outing. This strategy places additional pressure on the remaining rotation members and the bullpen, which is currently operating with a seven-man staff due to Steven Okert's hamstring injury. Manager Joe Espada has expressed a desire to extend the pitch counts for these starters as the team defends a three-game division lead. The club completes a 13-day stretch of consecutive games on Sunday, a schedule that may allow for more flexible roster management in the coming weeks.

• 6:25 AMYahoo Sports — Astros need to preserve their bullpen. Will they take the reins off Cristian Javier or Ethan Pecko?