Projection For Astros Playoff Pitching Rotation: 'There Is No Way That Justin Verlander Does Not Start'

The Matt Thomas Show

Brian McTaggart, Astros beat reporter for MLB.com, joins The Matt Thomas Show after the Astros avoided the sweep by shutting out the Philadelphia Phillies 10-0 on Wednesday. Yordan Alvarez recorded a two-run homer and two solo shots for his third career three-homer game. Spencer Arrighetti struck out 11 batters and held a no-hitter through seven innings. Chas McCormick also homered Wednesday but was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land after the game concluded. "I do think Chas will be back," perhaps closer to the playoffs, because "he's got value," McTaggart said. Space is now cleared for veteran outfielder Jason Heyward, whom the Astros are expected to add to their active roster ahead of a four-game series against the Kansas City Royals. "I suspect [Heyward will] be starting in right field tonight." The Astros hold a 3.5-game lead over the Seattle Mariners in the AL West and are projected to make the postseason. With the addition of Yusei Kikuchi and other members of the rotation stepping up, the Astros have six quality starters, raising questions about who would take the mound in a playoff series. "It's a great problem to have if your Joe Espada." Despite giving up four runs and seven hits in five innings during Tuesday's 5-0 loss, "there is no way that Justin Verlander does not start a game in the playoffs." After September 1, all MLB teams will have an expanded roster of 28 players up from the standard 26. The Astros will be able to add a pitcher and a position player. While McTaggart believes the Astros will add a third catcher, there is a toss up between Forrest Whitley and Rafael Montero, who are both pitching well in Triple-A. "My gut tells me it will be Montero."