Projecting the Astros Opening Day Roster

Feb 15, 2017; West Palm Beach, FL, USA; Houston Astros manager A.J. Hinch (top) speaks with pitchers and catchers during spring training workouts at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 15, 2017; West Palm Beach, FL, USA; Houston Astros manager A.J. Hinch (top) speaks with pitchers and catchers during spring training workouts at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Opening Day Starting Rotation

The front end of the starting rotation remains Dallas Keuchel, Lance McCullers, and Collin McHugh. That much is clear.

However, the final two starting jobs are somewhat up for grabs. The favorites at this point are Mike Fiers, Charlie Morton, and Joseph Musgrove. And you shouldn’t count out Chris Devenski, Brad Peacock, and Brady Rodgers.

If I were a betting man, I would think that Morton is the likely fourth starter as he just inked a two-year, $14 million contract this winter. Fiers could be the fifth starter or the go-to long relief pitcher, a la 2016 Scott Feldman.

It just feels like Musgrove is going to make the rotation. Do not forget that he impressed in his debut season as he put up a 4.06 ERA/4.18 FIP in 62 innings. There is definitely something to build upon there.