Astros’ early struggles put front office, coaches on hot seat

Astros’ early struggles put front office, coaches on hot seat originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Houston Astros were expected to have a bounce-back season after missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016, but their start has been less than ideal.

With a pitching staff that has a team-worst 5.93 ERA, Houston is in desperate need of reinforcements but has instead been hit with more injuries. While the offense has been efficient, the Astros have struggled to set consistent lineups with players jumping in-and-out of the lineup due to injuries.

While the injuries offer a valid explanation, MLB insider Ken Rosenthal doubts team owner Jim Crane thinks the same and hints that manager Joe Espada and general managers Dana Brown might be on the hot seat.

“He is an owner who clearly has stated many times, the window here will always be open. And I don't sense he’s one to hear excuses,” Rosenthal said on Foul Territory.

The Astros’ margin for error is shrinking fast

The Astros are 9-15 and last in the American League West. They have won only three of their last 15 games and were recently swept in back-to-back series by the Colorado Rockies and Seattle Mariners.

Much of Houston’s early struggles stem from a depleted pitching staff, especially after losing key contributors and dealing with a wave of injuries.