Astros rotation preview: How Justin Verlander changes everything

Projecting the Astros pitching rotation after the trade deadline

Justin Verlander, Framber Valdez, Christian Javier, Hunter Brown, J.P France

The Astros finally got their guy at the deadline. Again. Justin Verlander is once again a Houston Astro and judging by the trade package they sent to New York, they valued him tremendously. Houston parted ways with Drew Gilbert and Ryan Clifford in order to add him to their rotation and this upgrade changes things completely for Dusty Baker’s team down the stretch.

Verlander gives them a true battle tested ace to stick at the front of their rotation against pitchers like Gerrit Cole, Clayton Kershaw, Spencer Strider and Max Scherzer when the postseason rolls around. Having the flexibility to move Framber Valdez to their number 2 starter is huge for the Astros, as he has ace potential, but will thrive in any situation against other teams second best pitcher. Houston could truly have the best 1-2 punch heading down the stretch.

Jose Urquidy is likely to return at some point this year, where he’ll slot into the back half of the rotation. As of now, it’s likely the Astros go with Christian Javier, Hunter Brown and J.P France as to round out their rotation until Urquidy returns. Brandon Bielak had a good July, but he’ll likely bounce between Triple-A and MLB, potentially making spot starts or being used out of the bullpen down the stretch.