Astros Spring Training: Pitcher Notes

The Astros had their first session of workouts yesterday for pitchers and catchers.

Everyone in Houston is concerned about the Astros starting rotation from one degree to another. The success of the unit along with the overall well-being of the club may in fact rest on two arms: Dallas Keuchel and Lance McCullers.

Both pitchers missed extended time last season with injurues. Keuchel’s issues lied in his left shoulder while McCullers dealt with a barking right elbow.

But positive steps were made this offseason and it has appeared to carry over into Spring Training.

Here is the latest news from Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle.

And it looks like McCullers is going back to what he is most comfortable with in terms of pitching motions.

As for Keuchel, it appears that rest was key in his recovery from left shoulder inflammation.

Like I stated previously, the Astros need a healthy Keuchel and McCullers. One is a former AL Cy Young winner and the other is a  young, dynamic talent. They are integral to Houston’s plan of contention. And if both pitch well all season long then people will eventually forget that the Astros didn’t land the big fish this past offseason despite the numerous rumors.

In other news, Collin McHugh had his arbitration settled yesterday. The right hander won his case against the Astros and he will make $3.85 million in 2017. That’s a nice raise from the $529,000 he earned last year.

Despite the fear that negative feelings would fester afterwards, McHugh stated the contrary.

This is definitely good news for the Astros. A team should attempt to keep its own players relatively pleased when they are trying to compete. No need for extra drama in the clubhouse.

Next: Astros Lose Collin McHugh Arbitration Case

Overall, the start of Spring Training has been smooth. But it’s only one day in the books. There is still plenty of time for developments to take place, good or bad. Let’s just enjoy the positive news of the present.