JUST IN NOW: Astros key man vindicating club trade turnaround for Houston Astros
The Yusei Kikuchi era got off to a rocky start even before he joined the Houston Astros.
On July 29, the Astros acquired Kikuchi from the Blue Jays in exchange for three prospects. Kikuchi had struggled before the trade, posting a 4.75 ERA and a 1.340 WHiP over 115 2/3 innings. FanGraphs described the return for the Blue Jays as “astronomical” given Kikuchi’s performance after his first 10 starts of the season. Astros GM Dana Brown defended the trade, stating that the price for other options was even higher.
Despite his earlier struggles, the Astros had reasons to believe Kikuchi could be a valuable addition to their rotation. In Toronto, he had struck out 130 batters while issuing just 30 walks. His 3.67 FIP and a .344 BABIP indicated that better results might be on the way.
That has indeed been the case. Over the past month, Kikuchi has exceeded expectations, posting a 2.57 ERA and a 0.943 WHiP over 35 innings, striking out 47 batters while walking only 10. He has become a stabilizing force in a rotation that has lost Cristian Javier and Jose Urquidy for the season. With Ronel Blanco having already surpassed his career high in innings pitched and Hunter Brown nearing his own limit, Kikuchi’s role will be crucial down the stretch and into the postseason.
Kikuchi could also have a lasting impact on the Astros despite his impending free agency. Rookie Spencer Arrighetti has sought Kikuchi’s advice on pitching strategy and the development of Japanese pitchers. Arrighetti excelled in August, recording a 1.95 ERA and a 0.897 WHiP over 32 1/3 innings, with 47 strikeouts and 10 walks. If Arrighetti continues to thrive, Kikuchi’s influence on his development alone would make the trade worthwhile.
The Astros believed Kikuchi was the missing piece for their rotation, and he has proven to be much more than they expected.