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MLB Hot Stove: Houston Astros preview

By Jason Evans

Jun 15, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros center fielder Colby Rasmus (28) celebrates with third baseman Luis Valbuena (18) after hitting a home run during the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 15, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros center fielder Colby Rasmus (28) celebrates with third baseman Luis Valbuena (18) after hitting a home run during the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 11, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Dallas Keuchel (60) throws against the Kansas City Royals in game three of the ALDS at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 11, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Dallas Keuchel (60) throws against the Kansas City Royals in game three of the ALDS at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

The Astros are in pretty good shape with their starting rotation entering 2016. Having the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner is always a plus.

Dallas Keuchel emerged in his age 27 season as one of the best lefties in the game. Keuchel went 20-8 with a 2.48 ERA including going undefeated at home. He only gave up 185 hits in 216 innings and struck out 216 batters.

Colin McHugh was good in his own right, winning 19 games, posting a 3.89 ERA and throwing over 200 innings.

Mike Fiers should slot in the rotation again next season after coming over from the Brewers in the Carlos Gomez deal just before the deadline. Fiers went 2-1 in nine starts including a no-hitter against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Fiers posted 180 strikeouts in 180 innings even though he’s not a flamethrower.

Lance McCullers on the other hand is. The rookie struck out 129 in 125.1 innings pitched last season and won six games.

The fifth starter spot could be a competitive battle in Spring Training. Scott Feldman was shut down in September with a shoulder injury but could provide a veteran arm at the back-end of the rotation. Vincent Velasquez is another power arm prospect the Astros could go to. Brad Peacock could be another option they could turn to after missing all most of last season.

Dan Straily and Brett Oberholtzer could also be in line for a spot in the rotation. The Astros have some pretty good depth in the rotation, something that could help them in other areas.

Next: Bullpen

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