Houston Astros: The “Sipp” Solution

Choice 2: Michael Freeman

The Astros think highly of Freeman. As the number 30 prospect in the Astros system, Freeman had pitched very well in the early stages of his Astros career. However, it all changed when he got to Corpus Christi.

On paper, his numbers do not look major league worthy at all. In his 25 games this season, Freeman has a 4.96 ERA and a 1.88 WHIP in 45.1 innings pitched. Also, he is not a strikeout pitcher whatsoever. Averaging only 4.4 strikeouts per nine innings, Freeman has struck out 22 batters in his 45.1 innings of work.

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These numbers do not call for a major league call-up by any means. However, if the Astros need to stay in the organization and Sipp needs some help getting left-handed hitters out, numbers show that Freeman can do that. Against left-handers this season, Freeman has a .222 average against with a 1.17 average against, which is remarkably lower than his 2.42 WHIP against right-handed batters. Also, if Freeman gets ahead in the count against a batter, he has a 1.88 ERA with a 1.12 WHIP.

With a funky delivery and a hittable fastball, Freeman does not fool many righties. However, with proven success against lefties and a need on the big league club, it’s Freeman’s time to shine. His call up would give Sipp the same opportunities, but not the burden of being the only guy against lefty bats. Also, it would give Freeman valuable experience on how not only left-handed batters fare against him, but right-handed batters as well.

As more of a Randy Choate, one batter option out of the bullpen, Freeman would prove to be a valuable commodity on the club.

Next: Choice 3