Houston Astros: Is Hector Rondon an option for a long-term closer?
By Kyle Cardoza
When the Houston Astros traded for Ken Giles, they expected him to be the team’s closer for the future. But as he’s declined, Hector Rondon has filled in nicely. But is he an option to be the club’s long-term ninth-inning guy?
The Houston Astros knew Hector Rondon would be another dependable arm among their reliable relief corps. But surely they didn’t expect him to be this good.
Now, as the team’s unofficial official closer, he might retain the spot for a while. However, many variables will influence his upcoming role in the pen.
Houston owns the second-best reliever ERA in the MLB, just .12 points behind Arizona. Yet general manager Jeff Luhnow doesn’t settle. He always seeks to improve the club throughout each year.
And with the trade deadline approaching, surely the Astros will make a move. Whether it is for an additional reliever or a catcher, no one outside the front office is sure.
But those are likely the two biggest needs on the club, especially considering Brian McCann will be out for approximately four to six weeks. In regards to the pen, nearly every pitcher has fared well. Joe Smith and Will Harris are the only relievers with ERAs above 4.00.
Though, Harris is near the threshold and can lower it considerably by the end of the year. Nevertheless, the rest of Houston’s bullpen unit has been impressive.
Collin McHugh is in the midst of arguably his best season, though he only recently became a reliever. Brad Peacock and Chris Devenski continue to be versatile tools for manager A.J. Hinch.
And of course, Rondon has been a major bright spot. But even with his success as the team’s late-inning fireman, will he hold the position in the long stretch?