Alexander has been a trusted depth option with a 2.63 ERA in seven outings; his earlier reliability gives Houston room to maneuver, potentially offering a path for France or Arrighetti to carve roles without major upheaval to the rotation.

Alexander’s August surge is driven by a dominant changeup and a sinker that undercuts hitters in favorable sequences. His overall ratios have been strong, but xwOBA metrics caveat a possible regression if the sinker loses impact. He’s a high-value streamer in the right spot and a speculative add in deeper formats.

Alexander has impressed in a relief-to-starter arc for the Astros, providing a viable short-term rotation option in a win-driven crew. He’s a solid streaming play in Week 21 if his leash lengthens, but the long-term role remains uncertain. The risk-reward hinges on health, bullpen support, and how Houston leverages his inning limits.

Alexander is a punt play with a favorable matchup against Baltimore, leveraging Orioles’ run environment and recent strikeout trends to net a win and modest K upside as a cost saver.

Alexander spun six scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out three, earning Player of the Game honors. His efficiency underlined Houston’s rotation depth and added a notable name to the lineup for fantasy spot starts and streaming in favorable matchups.