Steven Okert has emerged as a key asset for the Houston Astros bullpen, achieving a remarkable 1.90 ERA in 20 appearances since signing a minor-league deal. Unusually, his success comes not from overpowering velocity but from an impressive 36% whiff rate. This rate is notably significant as it ranks him 15th among 393 pitchers with at least 50 batters faced, despite his fastball averaging just 92.3 mph.

Okert has streamlined his pitch selection to primarily fastballs and sliders, resulting in better performance from both. His slider boasts a whiff rate of 43.5%, while his fastball has an impressive 27.5% whiff rate. His ability to induce swings and misses while maintaining control – with only three walks in 23⅔ innings – positions him as a reliable reliever within a strong Astros bullpen, which holds the second-best collective ERA in the league.