Despite a slow start to the 2024 season, the Houston Astros have positioned themselves exactly where many expected them to be by late August—at the top of the American League West.
Though the Astros stumbled out of the gate, they have once again demonstrated their status as a serious contender in the American League this season. As they have done so consistently over the years, Houston utilized its deep roster to find key contributors when players were sidelined.
In the long grind of the MLB season, roster depth is crucial for any team aiming for the playoffs. The Astros have maintained a strong 25-man and 40-man roster for years, which is a major factor in their sustained success over the last decade.
One player who has emerged this season for Houston is starting pitcher Ronel Blanco. Recently, Joel Rueter of Bleacher Report highlighted Blanco as one of the most improved players in baseball.
“Ronel Blanco only secured a spot in the Houston Astros rotation because Justin Verlander landed on the injured list just before Opening Day, but he has made the most of his chance.”
“In his first start of the 2024 season and just his eighth career start in the big leagues, he tossed a no-hitter against the Toronto Blue Jays, and he followed that up with six innings of one-hit ball against the Texas Rangers in his second start.”
Compared to last season, Blanco has taken a significant leap forward in 2024. Last year, he appeared in 17 games, starting seven, and posted a 2-1 record with a 4.50 ERA and a 1.48 WHIP.
Blanco capitalized on the opportunity presented by Verlander’s absence, delivering a no-hitter in his first start of the season—one of the year’s most memorable moments. Since then, Blanco has put together a solid campaign, recording a 9-6 record with a 3.16 ERA and averaging nearly one strikeout per inning.
While Blanco’s overall season has been strong, July and August have been more challenging, with his ERA exceeding 4.00 in both months. This dip in performance could be due to fatigue or teams starting to adjust to him.
Despite some late-season struggles, Blanco has undoubtedly been one of the most improved players in baseball this year.
