Houston Astros 2016 Pitching Rotation Options (Part 1)

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Collin McHugh

Sep 4, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Collin McHugh (31) delivers a pitch during the fifth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Player Overview and Stats

After claiming Collin McHugh off waivers in 2013, McHugh has provided two years of quality service. He led the team last year in ERA posting a 2.73 mark and held an 11-9 record. After posting a 4.50 ERA before the All-Start game, he has return to his 2014 form posting a 2.63 ERA with a 5-2 record. At 28 years old, he is nearing the prime of his career. A solid production from McHugh over the course of September could be one of the decided factors of who wins the AL West.

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Contract Situation

After making just over $500k this past season, McHugh along with Keuchel will be eligible for arbitration this offseason through 2020. Some sources are saying the Astros and McHugh are talking an extension as well. I think arbitration is more likely, here is a look of similar pitchers receiving extensions recently:

2013, Mat Latos, Reds, 2-year, $11.50 million
2015, Wade Miley, Red Sox, 3-year, $19.25 million

Considering the contracts above, McHugh could be looking at a 2-year and $14 million deal.

2016 Status and My Recommendation

McHugh success along with the Astros financial control should make signingMcHugh an obvious decision. Regarding of how the contract process works out (arbitration or extension), the Astros can add McHugh to their 2016 rotation.

Next: Scott Feldman

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