Astros Eye Six-Man Rotation to Open 2026 Season

Astros Introduce Tatsuya Imai, Hint at Six-Man Rotation to Open 2026

The Houston Astros just introduced Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai, who headlines a pitching-heavy offseason after longtime ace Framber Valdez left. With a tight early schedule and durability questions all over the staff, manager Joe Espada says flexibility—maybe even a six-man rotation—will shape the first weeks of 2026.

A Pitching-Driven Offseason After Valdez

Valdez’s departure forced Houston to rethink its rotation plan. The front office decided to build depth instead of chasing one big name.

The splashiest move? A surprise three-year deal for Imai, who’s proven himself in Japan and now faces big expectations in Houston. They also traded for former Pirates prospect Mike Burrows and grabbed one-year deals with Ryan Weiss and Nate Pearson, aiming for competition and options over flash.

Why Houston Signaled a Six-Man Rotation

Espada didn’t just toss out the idea. From Opening Day on March 26 through April 22, the Astros get only two off days. That’s a grind, especially for pitchers with recent injuries or limited MLB time.

Running six starters would ease the load early and give the team a real look at new arms in actual games.

Breaking Down the Rotation Hierarchy

The back end of the staff is a mystery, but one thing’s obvious: Hunter Brown is the clear No. 1 starter for 2026. After that, roles are wide open and could shift during spring training.

Imai and Burrows should land somewhere in the middle, while Cristian Javier’s spot depends on his health and form.

The Crowded Battle for Final Rotation Spots

The fight for the last spots is packed and messy, with every candidate carrying some risk.

• Ryan Weiss: Signed for $2.6 million after a strong year in Korea, he probably starts camp as the favorite.
• Nate Pearson: Still throws gas but hasn’t found consistency thanks to injuries.
• AJ Blubaugh: Only three MLB starts so far, but he’s still interesting.
• Spencer Arrighetti and Lance McCullers Jr.: Both trying to bounce back from rough, injury-filled seasons.
• Jason Alexander: Mostly a depth piece at this stage.
• Miguel Ullola: A prospect who could surprise if he shines in spring.

Durability Questions Everywhere

Outside of Brown, the rotation is full of question marks. Javier’s comeback from Tommy John surgery last year was rocky, Burrows hasn’t tackled a full MLB season, and both Imai and Weiss haven’t pitched in the majors yet.

How the Bullpen Complicates the Equation

Going with six starters creates its own headaches. MLB rules cap teams at 13 pitchers, and Houston already has six bullpen spots locked in.

The near-guaranteed relievers are:

• Josh Hader
• Bryan Abreu
• Steven Okert
• Bennett Sousa
• Bryan King
• Enyel De Los Santos

That doesn’t leave much room for mistakes if Houston wants to balance rotation depth, bullpen coverage, and flexibility.

Rule 5 and Roster Pressure Looming

Rule 5 pick Roddery Muñoz adds another wrinkle. The Astros have to keep him on the 26-man roster all season if they want to keep him around.

One injury in spring training or a last-minute addition could throw everything into chaos. Suddenly, the front office might have to make some tough choices.

Right now, Espada and the front office seem happy to let the players battle it out. Maybe that’s the best way—let the competition play out and see who rises to the top.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Astros Could Open Season With Six-Man Rotation