Houston recalled LHP John Rooney from Triple-A Sugar Land and optioned RHP AJ Blubaugh, boosting bullpen depth as they push for a Baltimore series win and maintain the AL West lead over Seattle. Rooney has a 2.56 ERA with 12 holds in 43 Triple-A games this year, while Blubaugh has appeared in three majors games this season with a 4.15 ERA.

Rooney’s path includes time in the Dodgers’ farm system, free agency in 2024, a Marlins signing, and a cash trade to Houston on Aug. 3. Blubaugh, the club’s No. 16 prospect, debuted in April and returned in August before this option. Houston sits three games ahead of the Mariners after three straight wins and now faces Baltimore in a test of bullpen depth.

These moves signal a flexible bullpen approach as Houston eyes a late-season push and a potential September look for Rooney, who remains in line for his MLB debut.

The Houston Astros have bolstered their bullpen by acquiring left-handed reliever John Rooney from the Miami Marlins for cash considerations. Rooney, who is yet to make his major league debut, has impressed at the Triple-A level with a 2.45 ERA across 38 appearances this season. He brings significant strikeout ability, boasting a 32.4% strikeout rate, although his walk rate at 16.5% raises concerns. His addition provides the Astros with five left-handed options in the bullpen, augmenting their depth as they prepare for a critical series against the Red Sox.