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Astros Promote 28-Year-Old John Rooney for Bullpen Debut in Baltimore

Houston's latest bullpen move reflects injury fallout plus roster-rule constraints.

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Houston's AJ Blubaugh is heading back to Sugar Land after pitching four innings against the Orioles on Saturday.
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Overview

  • The Astros recalled LHP John Rooney from Triple-A Sugar Land and optioned RHP AJ Blubaugh, who must remain in Triple A for 15 days unless he replaces an injured pitcher.
  • Rooney debuted hours after the call-up, throwing 1.1 innings in a 3-2 loss to the Orioles with one run allowed on one hit, two strikeouts, and one walk.
  • Acquired from the Marlins for cash on Aug. 3 after years in the Dodgers system, Rooney logged a 2.56 ERA with 12 holds at Triple A this season, including a 3.18 ERA in five outings for Sugar Land.
  • Scouting notes flag command concerns despite strikeout punch, with a 14.9% Triple-A walk rate this year, per MLB Trade Rumors.
  • The bullpen churn continues with Josh Hader and Bennett Sousa on the IL, Shawn Dubin designated for assignment, Logan VanWey optioned, and Craig Kimbrel signed to a major-league deal.