Astros: If you're seeking bullpen help, look at Blake Treinen
By Clint Irle
KANSAS CITY, MO - JUNE 3: Blake Treinen #39 of the Oakland Athletics throws in the ninth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on June 3, 2018 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images) /
Should the Astros look into acquiring bullpen help from outside the organization?
The defending champs are trending in the right direction, but some would continue to question the bullpen's ability to close games. The 1-0 loss to the Royals on June 22nd reminded everyone of that.
So, will the Astros pursue a "closer" before the deadline? If so, I recommend they take a look at Athletics right-hander Blake Treinen.
Blake Treinen named AL Reliever of the Month.
— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) June 2, 2018
Quietly Closing Games
First, Treinen has found success in Oakland. He has a 4-1 record, with a 0.98 ERA. Treinen has collected 17 saves while carrying a 0.90 WHIP. The A's are 4th in the AL West, and he is rumored to be available. No matter the situation, Treinen has taken advantage of his opportunities and making a case for considering as a target at the trade deadline.
A's mailbag: Blake Treinen as trade bait, Franklin Barreto's future and more: @JulianMack105 https://t.co/wMyYt05qAP
— The Athletic Bay Area (@TheAthleticSF) June 22, 2018
Treinen vs. Left-Handed Hitters
Secondly, the Astros would benefit from an extra option in the bullpen. Although Tony Sipp has been successful, the Astros will benefit from another option against left-handed hitters. There's no doubt the Astros would love to add a reliever who can handle LH hitters, as certain playoff lineups will be full of them. Treinen has been great against left-handed hitters. He now holds a 0.59 ERA against lefties and has only allowed one earned run to them. He has shown the ability to get outs against hitters from both sides of the plate and gives the Astros plenty of versatility, a crucial part of their philosophy.
You're looking at a 100 mph sinker from Blake Treinen.
I'm not sure how you'd catch that, let alone hit it. pic.twitter.com/DNRzeiHd5i
— Baseball Fam (@ShtBallPlayrsDo) June 24, 2018
Contractual Considerations
Treinen's salary this season is $2.15 million. He is arbitration eligible through 2020. Treinen will become a free agent in 2021. He fits the scope of the Astros parameters in players. Better yet, they retain control for years to come. These contractual considerations keep him in account with relievers like Brad Hand ($520,000 in 2018) and Zach Britton ($3.2 million in 2018). Salary info courtesy of Baseball-Reference.
Next: Astros: Three keys to victory against the Blue Jays
All in all, Astros fans would love for the Astros to bolster their bullpen. I believe Blake Treinen is worth a look, and a valuable trade option for the organization.