4 bold Astros predictions for the 2023 season
By Tim Boyle
3. Bold Astros prediction: The bullpen underachieves in the regular season
The Astros had an impressive bullpen in the regular season. Dusty Baker’s job was easy. Even guys no one really expected to be key pieces ended up delivering quality innings throughout the year. Even trade deadline acquisition Will Smith settled down for them.
Unfortunately, it won’t be the same strength in 2023. The bullpen is going to underachieve. Rafael Montero, now signed for three years, will take a step back. He won’t be stealing money from Houston, however, there will be some regrets about believing he was worth all that dough.
Ryne Stanek and his ridiculous 1.15 ERA won’t show up again. Neither will Bryan Abreu and the 1.94 ERA performance he gave them.
Somewhat overlooked because this was a team with star power, a lot of Houston’s 2022 success falls on the relievers who stayed productive and healthy throughout the year. Six players appeared in 50 games or more. The team can consider itself lucky that Montero was able to save 14 games for them with Ryan Pressly earning the bulk at 33.
A was a bit of luck. There was a ton of talent involved, too. Whoever or whatever we want to hand out credit to, the Astros bullpen won’t be quite as elite in 2023. What does it mean for their march to the World Series?