Astros: Osuna focusing on the future not the past

The Astros’ relief pitcher Roberto Osuna puts the past behind him and is focusing on new goals for his first full season with Houston.

Osuna is participating in his first Spring Training with the Houston Astros and making the most of it. His 75 game suspension last season for violating MLB’s domestic violence policy is all in the rear-view mirror and he’s focused solely on the future and his goals for 2019.

"“I got a lot of personal goals this year and I’m going to do everything I can to make it happen. Obviously the biggest goal for me is to win a World Series. So, I’m really looking forward to focusing on baseball.”"

He’s also doing his best to become a part of this team and getting to know and earning the respect of his teammates.  “It feels really good to be back, especially with this great team,” Osuna said. “I got to know my teammates a little bit better and I’m happy for it.” Manager A. J. Hinch has been impressed with how well Osuna has handled the situation in a humble manner and with his work ethic.

Hinch has already designated Osuna as the Astros’ closer for the upcoming season. After being eased into the role last season following his acquisition, Osuna earned the closing spot with his impressive performance. In the 22.2 innings he pitched with Houston, Osuna accumulated 12 saves and two wins while striking out 19 batters and had an ERA 1.99.

Osuna is working on refining his sinker that Marcus Stroman taught him while pitching for the Blue Jays. This would be a nice addition to his repertoire of a 95 mph fastball, cutter, slider, and changeup.

"“Everybody needs six pitches or seven pitches, so if he adds an extra one, why not?” Hinch joked. “What’s different about him and a lot of back-end relievers is he’ll be able to execute it if he gets the feel of it. If that’s the case it will be another weapon for him.”"

Osuna says he’s willing to do whatever Hinch asks of him to contribute to this team. “He’s the boss, and I wanna win,” Osuna spoke of Hinch. “If he feels like the seventh inning will be the right time sometimes, I mean, I’ll be ready.” He seems to have a renewed dedication to his personal goals and those of the team, and that should only lead to good results.