Astros: Who Is Casey Coleman and what is his role for the team?

The Houston Astros made a move in the pitching market by acquiring RHP Casey Coleman, who will report to Fresno.

The move is not exciting. However, the Astros are looking in all areas to find help for their pitching staff. Although this is not the move most fans want to see, there must be something about Coleman the Astros find positive.

By request from my sister-in-law and to better educate others. I’d like to give my input on Casey Coleman, who is working to bounce back to major league form.

Casey’s Road to the Astros

Coleman has been part of many organizations during his time as a major league pitcher. From the Rays to the Cubs, and the Cubs to the Royals. Coleman has not yet found a place to settle into and develop, so to speak. It can be difficult for pitchers to develop when the coaching philosophies change often.

Perhaps that falls on Coleman more so the organization. Either way, this move perks some interest. Obviously, the Astros have a purpose in mind for the 29-year-old right-hander. At the moment, his job is to add a starting pitcher in Triple-A and an option for the Astros with MLB experience.

Casey’s Pitching Style

Coleman utilizes four pitches: Fastball, slider, curveball and change-up. He averages 89 mph with his fastball. Therefore, he is not an overpowering pitcher. He has thrown in 58 games, posting a 5.72 career ERA. He has a similar pitching model to Collin McHugh.

Both pitchers post similar velocity with their fastballs, throw breaking balls and have a change-up to complement their style. We all saw how successful McHugh was once he became a part of the Astros organization. The Astros must see the potential for Coleman to replicate the success of McHugh in the future. Most likely, he’s just a depth option.

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Casey’s Immediate Role

First and foremost, the outlook of McHugh and his return is blurry. This is one of a few factors that dictated this move to acquire Coleman. The inconsistent performance of Joe Musgrove and Mike Fiers also contributes to the need for a pitcher who has experience at the highest level. This may also be an immediate filler for Brady Rodgers, who will have Tommy John surgery. All in all, the move is open to a few different possibilities.

In my opinion, this is not the move the Astros are working to make for a pitcher. Casey Coleman does not seem to have the stuff to compete at the highest level. A 29-year-old, minor league pitcher who has had minimal success in the Major Leagues has been acquired to maintain the Fresno Grizzlies pitching staff.

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I would also like to mention that Coleman has started a charity, True Competitors. Which provides sick children with the chance to communicate with professional athletes via video feed. Please take some time to research this endeavor and support Coleman in his pursuit of this philanthropic dream.

***Stats and Data gathered from Baseball Reference and Fangraphs***