RADIO
Bryan Abreu Ticketed for Ninth-Inning Role in Houston
Houston Astros reliever Bryan Abreu appears to be in a position to take over as the team's closer to begin the year. Houston's regular closer, Josh Hader (biceps), threw his first bullpen session of the spring on Tuesday, but manager Joe Espada has already ruled the veteran out for Opening Day. Abreu has been both durable and effective for the Astros over the last four years, recording a 2.30 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, and a 23.9 percent K-BB% during that span. Hader is not expected to miss too much time, so Abreu's hold on the closer role should only be temporary, but given Hader's lengthy injury history and Abreu's ability to perform, there could be opportunities for additional save chances throughout the year. Bump Abreu up draft boards slightly, as the early-season save chances added to his ability to lower ratios while providing plenty of strikeouts should only bolster the 28-year-old's fantasy relevance.
Source: Chandler Rome
Source: Chandler Rome
