Houston Astros' bullpen fatigue is mounting as starters struggle to work deep into games
It's been more than two weeks since an Astros starter went at least six innings, forcing the team to rely on a bullpen that's clearly showing some fatigue from a big workload.
Houston Astros' bullpen is experiencing fatigue as starting pitchers struggle to work deep into games, according to manager Joe Espada. Only one team in the majors started the week with fewer innings from their starting pitchers in August. The Astros have not had a starter complete six innings since Hayden Wesneski on August 10.
Seven of their 13 games since have seen starters work fewer than five innings. The bullpen, ranked third-lowest in ERA since June, is facing increased risk with 30 games left in a division race. Starting pitcher Ethan Pecko lasted 4 ⅓ innings against the Yankees, with four relievers pitching the final 4 ⅔ innings. This trend continues as the Yankees scored four runs off Houston relievers in a 9-3 loss.
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