The Astros Bolster Bullpen with Signing of Ex-Yankees Veteran Right-Hander
In a move to strengthen their bullpen amidst a string of injuries, the Houston Astros have officially signed a Triple-A deal with a familiar face from the New York Yankees. The veteran right-hander brings a wealth of experience and talent to the team, providing much-needed depth for the 2025 season.
The Astros have been plagued with injuries to key players in their bullpen, leaving them in need of reinforcements. With this signing, they have secured a reliable and proven pitcher who can step in and make an impact immediately.
The ex-Yankees player, whose name has not yet been disclosed, has a long history of success in the league. With a strong track record and impressive stats, he is sure to be a valuable asset to the Astros’ pitching staff.
This move not only adds depth to the bullpen, but also brings a sense of stability and confidence to the team. As they continue to battle through injuries and tough competition, the Astros can rest assured knowing they have a seasoned veteran on their side.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of the ex-Yankees pitcher in an Astros uniform, and are hopeful that he will help lead the team to victory in the 2025 season. With this signing, the Astros have solidified their position as a top contender in the league, and are ready to take on any challenges that come their way. Russa makes bold statement on team’s playoff chances
The Astros quietly add veteran pitcher Matt Bowman to their organization, giving them more options in their bullpen.
The Houston Astros have made a lowkey move by signing former New York Yankees pitcher Matt Bowman to a minor league contract and assigning him to Triple-A Sugar Land. This comes after the Baltimore Orioles released Bowman on Friday due to his struggles in the majors.
Bowman, who was drafted by the New York Mets in 2012, has a diverse background as both a pitcher and shortstop. He brings a variety of pitches to the table, including a low-90s fastball, a hard slider, curveball, and changeup.
The 34-year-old has a long history in the MLB, making his debut in 2016 with the St. Louis Cardinals. He has played in 231 major league games, mostly in relief, and has a record of 8-14 with a 4.38 ERA, 194 strikeouts, and 83 walks in 240.2 innings.
After spending four seasons with the Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds, injuries sidelined Bowman, including Tommy John surgery in 2020. He then signed a two-year minor league deal with the Yankees in 2020 but missed both the 2021 and 2022 seasons due to recovery. He became a free agent in November and briefly returned with the Yankees in 2023 before bouncing between multiple teams in 2024, including the Minnesota Twins, Arizona Diamondbacks, Seattle Mariners, and Baltimore Orioles.
In 2025, Bowman had an uneven season with the Orioles, posting a 6.20 ERA in 20 appearances with 18 strikeouts and six walks in 24.2 innings. He was designated for assignment multiple times and also spent time with Triple-A Norfolk, where he had a 4.10 ERA in 26.1 innings with a 21.8% strikeout rate.
The Astros’ decision to sign Bowman comes as they deal with injuries in their bullpen, with closer Josh Hader out since August 12 due to a left shoulder strain. They have also placed right-handed pitchers Bennett Sousa and John Rooney on the 15-day injured list. To address these needs, the Astros previously signed former closer Ryan Pressly after his release from the Chicago Cubs and temporarily moved starter Lance McCullers Jr. into the bullpen. Other right-handed options in the bullpen include Bryan Abreu, Bryan King, Kaleb Ort, Steven Okert, Enyel De Los Santos, and AJ Blubaugh.
Since Bowman joined the Astros before September 1, he is eligible for the postseason if the team chooses to add him to the 40-man roster. However, it is uncertain if he will get a chance at the major league level, as non-roster relievers Cody Bolton, Jordan Weems, and Tayler Scott are also competing for late-season bullpen spots. Astros manager Tony La Russa has expressed confidence in the team’s playoff chances, and the addition of Bowman could provide even more depth to their bullpen.
