BREAKING: Astros Promote 26-Years-old brilliant right-handed pitcher After Demoting Top Pitcher
The Houston Astros have officially announced the recall of their former top prospect, Forrest Whitley, who is set to make his first appearance in the major leagues. Whitley, a 26-year-old right-hander, was selected in the first round of the 2016 draft and quickly made a name for himself in the minor leagues. He dominated for his first year and a half, pitching his way to Double-A as a teenager. By 2018, he was considered a potential ace and the top pitching prospect in the sport.
Whitley’s journey to the majors has been far from smooth. He was suspended for 50 games at the start of the 2018 season for violating the minor league drug policy. The following year, he struggled with shoulder issues and lost his command of the strike zone.
The cancellation of the 2020 season cost him another year of development, but the Astros still added him to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft.Whitley has held onto that spot, but it hasn’t always been easy. He underwent Tommy John surgery in March 2021 and struggled to regain his form when he returned. His control issues resurfaced, and he posted a 6.53 ERA in the upper minors in 2022. ‘
He started the 2023 season on a rough note, allowing four runs on three homers in just three innings. However, he has been added to the Astros’ bullpen, providing a fresh arm for a unit that has been heavily used this season.Whitley’s promotion may not receive the same level of attention as it would have a few years ago, but it is still a significant milestone for the right-hander. After nearly eight years of climbing through the minor leagues and dealing with various injuries, he has finally made it to the big leagues.
While his stay may be brief, as the Astros continue to cycle through middle relievers until their rotation finds its groove, Whitley has the opportunity to make his debut and contribute to the team’s success.The Astros made the corresponding move by optioning Spencer Arrighetti, and Justin Verlander is expected to take Arrighetti’s rotation spot once he is activated off the injured list. The Astros have used their bullpen heavily this season, with only the Dodgers and Padres using their relief groups more.
Whitley’s addition provides a much-needed fresh arm for a unit that has been tasked with 71 innings through the season’s first three weeks.Whitley’s promotion is a testament to his perseverance and determination to make it to the majors, despite the numerous obstacles he has faced. It is a well-deserved reward for a player who has worked hard to overcome injuries and setbacks to achieve his dream of playing in the big leagues.
