Astros' Forrest Whitley takes step in right direction with first spring start
Forrest Whitley threw the first 2 1/3 innings of the Astros' 4-3 loss to the Marlins on Monday, allowing a two-run homer to Peyton BurdickWEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Forrest Whitley’s last Grapefruit League appearance came amid chaos. Former pitching coach Brent Strom labeled him “not physically ready” to compete for a major league roster spot upon arrival in camp, but the Astros still used him in relief against the Washington Nationals on March 11, 2020.
Monday might have represented its end. Whitley’s Grapefruit League start against the Miami Marlins signaled the beginning of a season when he’s more necessity than novelty — one that could determine his organizational future. This is Whitley’s last season with minor league options, making his spot on the 40-man roster more precarious than ever.
Houston put Whitley on its 40-man roster three years ago and has never considered calling him up. Most of the blame belongs to Tommy John surgery, but it isn’t as if Whitley positioned himself well prior to it. He finished 2019 with a 7.99 ERA in 59⅔ innings, requiring a midseason “reset” to stop his decline. Roster spots are precious on a championship team. Another subpar season this year will only increase speculation how long Whitley can keep his.
Whitley tried to showcase himself Monday. He started without worrying about his health or that of the world around him — already an improvement from his last spring training appearance. Tommy John surgery and the ensuing rehab caused him to miss almost all of the past two camps.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Astros get first look at MLB's new pitch clockAstros' lineup of mostly minor leaguers completed spring training opener without a pitch...
Read more »
Astros' Kyle Tucker felt 'rushed' in first game with a pitch clockHouston outfielder vowed to continue adjusting to new rules, but wondered why MLB gave...
Read more »
Terell Owens throws out first pitch, talks about his Astros connectionFootball Hall of Famer Terrell Owens throws out first pitch, talks about his Astros connection
Read more »
Astros' Michael Brantley on track for Opening Day amid shoulder recoveryAstros outfielder took batting practice on the field for the first time Sunday as he...
Read more »
José Abreu embracing new start with AstrosThe work didn't stop postgame after the veteran first baseman started in the Grapefruit...
Read more »
How Manny Machado's deal could impact Astros' Alex BregmanThird basemen's situations aren't exactly parallels, but Machado's massive contract...
Read more »