Zack Greinke could be Houston Astros playoff relief ace
By David Hill
Losing Zack Greinke was a major blow for the Houston Astros. Even if he was to remain on the Injured List for the minimum ten days, he may not be able to provide any length in the rotation. As Greinke has been an important part of the rotation, in part because of his ability to eat innings, that is a blow that the Astros cannot afford.
But Greinke may be able to provide something for the Astros during the postseason. According to Dusty Baker, Greinke could be a part of the playoff bullpen.
Dusty Baker said Zack Greinke might pitch a rehab outing for Triple-A Sugar Land on Thursday, which would mean his regular season is over. "We just need him sharp for when we do need him," Baker said. Greinke in the postseason bullpen is "a very distinct possibility," per Baker.
— Jake Kaplan (@jakemkaplan) September 28, 2021
Zack Greinke could be Houston Astros postseason fireman
Greinke does have some experience in the bullpen, having made 41 appearances as a reliever over his career. He has fared reasonably well in such a role as well, posting a 3.62 ERA and a 1.140 WHiP in his 59.2 innings, striking out 60 batters with 18 walks. It would be a worthwhile gamble for the Astros if they do decide to put him in the bullpen.
More Astros. Baker deserves more attention. light
The issue is that Greinke has not pitched in relief since 2007. While he does have that experience, it is from 14 years ago. Presumably, they will put him into a relief role in Triple-A, just to get him a bit of familiarity in that role once again. It may even behoove the Astros to bring him in during the middle of an inning if someone is on base, just so that he can have that experience.
As a battle tested veteran with plenty of playoff experience, this could be the perfect role. Even though he may not be able to start, he could provide several solid innings in relief, allowing the Astros to use a potential piggyback system. Or, he could be that fireman they need, using his craftiness to get out of difficult situations and keep the Astros alive.
Such a move could have happened even if he was healthy. Greinke, while still a solid arm, is not the ace he once was. The Astros do have other, and possibly even better, options in the rotation. He could have been the odd man out, but his recent injury made that move much easier to digest.
Next. Greinke has Cy Young numbers in one area. dark
The Houston Astros could move Zack Greinke to the bullpen for the postseason. It could be a move that will pay off in a short series.