The Houston Astros' bullpen has been a hot topic as the season kicks off, with much of the buzz revolving around Josh Hader's injury. While Bryan Abreu's future has also been under the microscope, AJ Blubaugh has quietly emerged as a name to watch.
Blubaugh might not have been on everyone's radar, but the Astros see something special in him. Initially pegged as a starting pitching prospect without a spot in the rotation, Blubaugh's role in the bullpen might be more permanent than anticipated after his Opening Day performance against the Angels.
AJ Blubaugh's standout performance has given the Astros something to think about
Blubaugh is no stranger to relief work. He closed in college and split time between starting and relieving in the minors before moving to the rotation in 2024. But it wasn't just his experience that made an impression-it was the electric quality of his pitches.
Despite surrendering a home run to Mike Trout, Blubaugh impressed during his 2.1 innings of work. Typically throwing in the mid-90s as a starter, he cranked up his fastball to consistently hit 97-98 mph in relief. This multi-inning stint helped keep the Astros' bullpen fresh, even as Hunter Brown struggled to finish the fifth inning.
If Blubaugh can maintain this form, he could be a crucial asset for the Astros in 2026. The team has a history of successfully utilizing swingmen, with Collin McHugh's later years as a prime example. With uncertainty surrounding the rotation beyond Brown, having Blubaugh as a high-velocity, multi-inning option could be invaluable for managing the bullpen over a long season.
Of course, this plan hinges on Blubaugh's continued performance. There's always the possibility he might be needed as a full-time starter if injuries arise. Nevertheless, Blubaugh is off to a promising start, and his future with the Astros looks bright, regardless of the role he ultimately fills.