Why the Astros Are Embracing a Six-Man Rotation in 2026
Houston Astros embrace a bold new era with the six-man rotation—can this pitching experiment fuel another World Series run? Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey examine how Hunter Brown, Imai, and Christian Javier headline a crowded battle for rotation spots, while Spencer Arrighetti and Lance McCullers Jr. fight to stay relevant. The hosts raise critical pitching questions, spotlight the recent Edward Cabrera trade, and debate whether Houston needs another left-handed starter like MacKenzie Gore.
Roster intrigue doesn’t stop at the mound. Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey explore key arbitration deadlines for Astros stars, the backup catcher conundrum between Cesar Salazar and rumored target Victor Caratini, and how frontline options like Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes could spark infield drama. Plus, get insights on Houston’s latest minor league signings and the fan experience surrounding Fan Fest. Will this revamped Astros roster maintain their championship pedigree in 2026—or are more moves on the horizon?
With 26 games in 28 days to open the season, Houston is expected to roll out a six-man rotation built around Hunter Brown, Imai, Cristian Javier, and Spencer Arrighetti, with a deep group of options ready to step in. After using 15 different starting pitchers last season, the Astros are clearly prioritizing health, flexibility, and durability early in the year.
We break down why Joe Espada is leaning into the six-man setup, how it helps ease Imai’s transition from Japan, and why this approach could protect the bullpen and prevent another injury-ravaged rotation. Plus, we look at what this means for Lance McCullers Jr., the depth arms waiting in the wings, and how second-half reinforcements could change the picture.
Is this the smartest rotation strategy Houston has used in years—or a sign the Astros are adapting to a new reality?
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00:00 Astros’ Six-Man Rotation Discussion
05:00 Astros’ Six-Man Rotation Explained
07:44 “Astros’ Back-End Rotation Focus”
13:42 “Rotation Debate: No Lefties”
19:11 Astros’ Lineup Dilemma Unfolds
25:50 “Brutal Baseball Arbitration Process”
29:01 “Fan Fest Highlights and Updates”
30:48 “FanFest Ticket Giveaway Announcement”
34:14 “Locked On Astros Podcast”
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9 comments
This on a whim…. 1. Hunter-France, _________, Abreu, Hader… 2. Javier-Santos,_________, Abreu, Hader… 3.Imai-Bluebaugh,___________, Abreu, Hader… 4. Burrows-Alexander,__________, Abreu, Hader… 5. Walter-Arrighetti,________, Abreu, Hader…. 5 game rotation with 2 starters ready to eat innings then reliever then setup and closer. Its worked before!!!!
Also with catching, I want catchers that can read and know opposing batters and can throw out at batters, at least have that threat to keep steals at a low. batting is not a foremost for me
The Astros have enough pictures that they can also do some piggybacking and have bullpen days.
Astros: Boras isn't such a bad guy. He is our friend!
Boras: Excellent….
Do the Dodgers method hella pitchers by the time postseason comes along they all decently rested
Lance is trash he’s not good he’s been done with lol he needs to go away regardless of money he is CHEEKSSSS I😊
I feel like so much is going to depend on spring training but yet I also hear that spring training doesnt matter its just meant for pitchers to warm up.
Quality over quantity. A lot starters and not as many answers.
There won’t be a rotational infield. Parades will go to Boston for Early if Bregman signs elsewhere – and that solves your lefty starter problem. If I were the Astros I would see if Red Sox would be interested in Javier and Paredes for Early and Abreu. Clears up a big chunk of salary for Caratini and the rotation spot for Early – and Early comes with 6 years of control.