Houston Astros: The “Sipp” Solution

Choice 4: No Lefty Specialist

Although Sipp has been a solid contributor for the Astros for the past two seasons, there does not need to be a matchup-based bullpen for the Astros. Manager A.J. Hinch has already shown, through the construction of his bullpen, that every pitcher should be able to get every hitter out. On the current Astros roster, three guys have shown that ability to get left-handed hitters out.

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With a .194 batting average against left-handed hitters, Chris Devenski has only given up 19 hits and a 0.89 WHIP against them. He has also struck left-handers out 29 times. Ken Giles has been better against left-handed bats. In his 18.1 innings against, Giles has 19 strikeouts and a 1.25 WHIP against, which is .14 points lower than against righties.

Finally, our closer Will Harris has dominated everyone. Against left-handers, Harris has 18 strikeouts in 17.1 innings and a 1.04 WHIP.

However, let’s not forget about the arm that former Astros third baseman Morgan Ensberg regards as the best in the Astros organization. James Hoyt, like Harris, has been dominating all kinds of hitters in the PCL. Against lefties, he has a measly .205 average against with 30 strikeouts in his 20 innings.

Next: Houston Astros: Best Offensive 3B Seasons Through the Decades

The Astros have the answer within the organization. It just may not be in the form of a southpaw pitcher.

***Stats from MLB.com, MILB.com, Baseball Reference, and FanGraphs***