Astros add Samuel Deduno to bullpen

The Astros have claimed right-hander Samuel Deduno from the Minnesota Twins. Unlike the recent claims of Scott Feldman and Chad Qualls, the Twins placed Deduno on irrevocable waivers. So, he is now a member of the Astros with no compensation going to Minnesota.

After starring with the Dominican team in last year’s World Baseball Classic, Deduno went 8-8 with a 3.73 ERA in 18 starts for the Twins. This year he made eight starts before being sent to Minnesota’s bullpen. Overall, Deduno compiled a 4.60 ERA with 74 strikeouts and 41 walks in 92 innings pitched.

Control has been the biggest concern for Deduno. But the 31-year old has a nice ground ball rate of 56% during his career. Deduno has allowed 274 hits in 284 & 2/3 big league innings — good for a .257 average against. Deduno features a fastball that clocks in the low nineties. He will also throw an occasional slider or changeup, but the curveball is his out pitch.

Deduno should plug right into the Astros bullpen for the remainder of the season. A spot on the 40-man roster will have to be cleared. There is already speculation that injured reliever Josh Zeid will be moved to the 60-day disabled list to free up a spot for the newest member of the Astros.