Astros: Do we need to add a starting pitcher?

The starting rotation has been the most discussed topic surrounding the Astros for quite some time now.

Lance McCullers came through last night with 7 quality innings, relieving the pressure on the bullpen and leading the team to a 6-1 win. With outings like this from McCullers and Dallas Keuchel being so dominant, do the Astros need an additional starting pitcher?

Our 1-2 Punch

Dallas Keuchel and Lance McCullers are some of the best starting pitchers this season. Keuchel is 9-0 with a 1.67 ERA. McCullers carrys a 6-1 record with a 2.58 ERA. These guys have set themselves apart as pitchers in the league. Let’s be honest, if this doesn’t make Dallas Keuchel an ace, what does?

Not only that, but what is to say McCullers doesn’t deserve this sort of recognition as well. Bottom line, these guys already are the pitching combination the Astros need.

Let’s not Forget about Collin McHugh

If McHugh made a season debut in August or September, would it be all that bad? Fans would say we need him to get back as fast as possible. However, wouldn’t a healthy McHugh be a great addition for the postseason?

Far be it from me to say that we should delay his return, but no need to rush him. We have plenty of talent that can carry us to the postseason. Let’s not forget that McHugh has all the tools necessary to pitch well in big moments, and produces quality starts consistently.

The Calvary Has Arrived

Brad Peacock has shown great form, Mike Fiers has had two consecutive winning starts, and Joe Musgrove is set to return this weekend. Not only that, David Paulino has show good form for a rookie, and we will get to see Francis Martes eventually. The Astros system is deep in young, talented pitchers. Although inexperienced, the course of season will prepare them for the playoff run. It is only a matter of time before these young guns begin to make strides at the big league level. Let’s not forget Charlie Morton, who is 5-3, with a 4.06 ERA.

Is the Market Worth it?

I want to ask a question, is Jose Quintana or Sonny Gray worth trading for? Quintana is boasting a 2-7 record, with a 5.30 ERA. Sonny Gray is 2-2 with a 4.57 ERA, while also returning from injury. With this in mind, do you feel these guys are worth trading our future away for? If you made a list of any of the starting pitchers the Astros could acquire, would they truly be worth what we are developing in our farm system?

Next: Astros Countdown: Top Five Risky Trade Ideas

We have so much working in our favor this current season and the next. Let’s not lose sight of the forest for the trees my friends.

***Statistics and data courtesy of Baseball-Reference and MLB.com***