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Astros: Three takeaways from this past weekend

By Kenny Van Doren

Apr 4, 2021; Oakland, California, USA; Houston Astros left fielder Chas McCormick (6) is congratulated by teammates after hitting a home run during the sixth inning against the Oakland Athletics at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 4, 2021; Oakland, California, USA; Houston Astros left fielder Chas McCormick (6) is congratulated by teammates after hitting a home run during the sixth inning against the Oakland Athletics at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /
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Houston Astros, Oakland A's, takeaways
Apr 4, 2021; Oakland, California, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Brandon Bielak (64) celebrates with catcher Jason Castro (18) after the game against the Oakland Athletics at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /

2. The bullpen is showing its depth.

While the starters peaked at six innings this past weekend, the bullpen stood up even with keys arms having delayed starts. Offseason pickup Ryne Stanek stood out with five strikeouts across three innings of work, as control was a slight issue across both outings. The right-hander doesn’t have a full arsenal of pitches but has been good with outs by contact, as he had a three pitch inning.

Brandon Bielak and Bryan Abreu combined for seven innings of long relief, that consisted of five strikeouts and only two base runners. While these two are destined to see some minor league time in 2021, it is a good sign that the prospect pitching is coming around after a rough 2020.

Once the pitching staff is fully healthy, there is a good chance that they thin out to only major league pitchers. There is a lot to be excited for in these young arms, as they will be needed down the stretch like they have been used now.

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