Astros Break In Francis Martes Out Of Bullpen

Righthander Francis Martes debuted for the Astros ahead of schedule by necessity.

In early June, when the Astros’ rotation was most depleted and their bullpen overburdened, the 21-year-old Dominican was called up despite having recorded a 5.29 ERA in eight starts at Triple-A Fresno.

Two months later, Martes remained in Houston—now recast as a reliever. He has displayed his electric fastball-breaking ball combination but also the erratic control that plagued him in the Pacific Coast League.

Through 36.1 big league innings, Martes had struck out 43 and walked 20 while contributing a 1.35 WHIP.

Though he’s far from a finished product, Martes should remain in the big league bullpen down the stretch. After making four starts, he has settled into a bullpen role.

The Astros say they still view Martes as a starter. At this point in the season, though, that role probably won’t be revisited until next spring.

“I think we’ll continue to think about him as a starter,” general manager Jeff Luhnow said, “but for the purposes of this year and potentially the postseason, (he’s) most likely in a relief role.”

Martes’ ability to repeat his delivery and the development of his changeup will be key in dictating his ultimate role. Though his control sometimes eludes him, he’s proven effective in relief this season when able to consistently land his fastball and breaking ball in and around the strike zone.

Astros manager A.J. Hinch has even used Martes in high-leverage situations during the absence of Will Harris, who has yet to pitch in the second half because of a shoulder injury. Martes figures to garner plenty more relief opportunities in the final two months, a sample that should determine whether he will be included in their postseason bullpen.

SPACE SHOTS

• Righthander J.B. Bukauskas, the 15th overall pick in June, is expected to pitch 15-20 innings this summer. The North Carolina product recently joined short-season Tri-City.

• Third baseman Colin Moran had surgery on July 31 to repair facial fractures stemming from the pitch he fouled off his face in a July 22 game.