Houston Astros become AL West favorites with Jake Odorizzi signing

The Houston Astros can certainly move quickly when the need arises. It was reported that the team was interested in Jake Odorizzi on Friday, which made sense given the possible season ending injury to Framber Valdez. With a starting rotation that remains full of question marks after Zack Greinke, the Astros interest made a great deal of sense.

It did not take long for a deal to come together. Odorizzi signed a two year deal with the Astros on Saturday, including a player option for 2023.

Houston Astros favorites in AL West with Jake Odorizzi

There is a degree of risk with this signing. Odorizzi battled injuries last year and was unable to get on track when he was on the mound. He allowed ten runs on 16 hits and three walks in his 13.2 innings, disappointing numbers for a pitcher who was slated to be one of the Twins’ key arms last year.

Nonetheless, this was a move the Astros needed to make, even had Valdez not be lost for an extended period of time. The AL West is wide open, as neither the A’s nor Angels have truly separated themselves in the division. Upgrading the rotation could make a drastic difference in Houston.

Odorizzi does just that should he be able to return to form. While he may not be an ace, he is a solid middle of the rotation arm, something the Astros need as they sort out their rotation. He posted a 3.88 ERA and a 1.235 WHiP in his 991.2 innings between 2014 and 2019, striking out 957 batters with 343 walks.

Houston does have questions. The rest of the rotation is still relatively unproven, and their bullpen is not exactly a strength. However, a still formidable offense can right a lot of issues with a pitching staff. And that pitching staff has gotten stronger now that Odorizzi is on board.

The Houston Astros have signed Jake Odorizzi to shore up their rotation. In doing so, they have now become the favorites in the AL West.