Houston Astros: Aaron Sanchez starting his journey back to majors
Former Houston Astros pitcher Aaron Sanchez has started his comeback attempt, throwing in front of approximately 20 teams last week.
When the Houston Astros had acquired Aaron Sanchez from the Toronto Blue Jays at the 2019 trade deadline, he seemed to be the perfect piece for the back of their rotation. Houston had success turning talented, but underperforming, pitchers around, and Sanchez fit that mold to perfection. However, his time with the Astros lasted for four outings before a shoulder injury ended his season, and led to his being released in the offseason.
But now, Sanchez is attempting to make his way back. He threw in front of approximately 20 teams last week in Miami as the first step on the comeback trail.
Right-hander Aaron Sanchez, who missed '20 following shoulder surgery and is a free agent, threw for about 20 teams last week in Miami. The former 15-game winner with Blue Jays is just 28. Could be a good comeback story next season.
— Tim Brown (@ByTimBrown) October 12, 2020
Prior to being injured, Sanchez showed that potential with the Astros. In his first two outings after the trade, he allowed just one run on three hits and five walks, striking out 12 batters in 11 innings. However, his last two starts were nowhere near as productive.
More Astros. Baseball gods had their way in Game Two. light
Still just 28 years old, Sanchez has had some success in the majors. He led the American League with a 3.00 ERA in 2016, winning 15 games and making the All Star Game. And he does have an elite spin rate on his curve. Yet, ongoing command issues have hindered Sanchez since, leaving him as a talented, but enigmatic, reclamation project.
Houston Likewise, Sanchez’s shoulder surgery is a major red flag. He tore his right shoulder capsule, causing him to miss the entire 2020 season as he recovered from surgery and underwent rehab. The track record of success from such a procedure is not exactly great.
But Sanchez is still young and intriguing. Even if his time as a starter is over, he could be a very interesting option in the bullpen, where his impressive curve could be an elite weapon. His occasional lapses of command would not be as problematic in a shortened stint, and could even be beneficial if he can be effectively wild. If healthy, Sanchez could become a weapon in the bullpen.
Next. Astros advancement good for MLB. dark
But Aaron Sanchez needs to prove that he is healthy. He took the first step towards doing so as he threw in front of approximately 20 teams last week in his quest to come back to the majors.