The Houston Astros have made significant roster moves ahead of the 2025 MLB season, impacting both their pitching staff and position players.
The team has decided to release two players while placing two others on the injured list.
This series of decisions comes as the Astros finalize their roster for Opening Day.
Let’s delve into the specifics of these moves and what they mean for the team moving forward.
Astros Release Jalen Beeks and Ben Gamel
In a surprising move, the Astros have granted Jalen Beeks his release. Beeks, who was signed to a minor league contract late in the offseason, seemed like a promising left-handed option for Houston’s bullpen.
Despite a solid performance last season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he posted a 3.92 ERA and an ERA+ of 109 in 29 outings, the Astros decided to let him go.
Beeks also had an impressive spring, giving up just one earned run on a homer in four innings pitched. However, the team felt they didn’t have a place for him, allowing him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
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Ben Gamel’s Release
Ben Gamel, another player released by the Astros, was claimed off waivers late last year. After being called up, he was moved to the injured list with a fractured leg in mid-September.
Gamel was brought back on a one-year, $1.2 million contract this offseason, with expectations that he could compete for an outfield role. However, Jose Altuve’s switch from second base to left field likely impacted this decision.
Gamel’s release marks another significant change in the Astros’ roster as they prepare for the new season.
Injuries Impacting the Astros’ Pitching Staff
The Astros’ pitching staff will also be affected by injuries to two key players. Both Kaleb Ort and Forrest Whitley will start the year on the injured list, making the bullpen thinner as the season begins.
Whitley, a highly-touted prospect, was expected to make his first Opening Day roster this year. However, a knee issue has sidelined him, despite a strong spring performance where he gave up just one run on two hits across four outings and five innings pitched.
Kaleb Ort’s Injury
Kaleb Ort, who was claimed off waivers by Houston in May of 2024, is also starting the season on the injured list due to an oblique injury.
Ort made 22 appearances with the big league ballclub last season, posting a 2.55 ERA with 26 strikeouts and just four walks in 24.2 innings pitched.
His absence will be felt, especially after a strong showing last season. Ort was expected to play a significant role in 2025, and his return will be closely monitored by the team.
Additional Roster Changes
In addition to the releases and injuries, the Astros have made other roster decisions.
Veteran infielder Luis Guillorme has been informed that he won’t be on the Opening Day roster. Guillorme’s future with the organization remains uncertain at this point.
These moves are part of the Astros’ efforts to finalize their roster as position battles come to a close.
Impact on the Team
The Astros’ roster moves highlight the team’s strategy and priorities as they head into the new season. The release of Beeks and Gamel, along with the injuries to Ort and Whitley, will undoubtedly impact the team’s depth and performance.
However, these decisions also reflect the Astros’ confidence in their remaining roster and their commitment to fielding the best possible team for Opening Day.
For more detailed information on the Astros’ recent roster moves, you can read the full article on Sports Illustrated.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Astros continue to prepare for the upcoming season.
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