The Houston Astros enter the 2025 MLB season at a crossroads, balancing between a retool and maintaining their dominance in the American League West. After trading Kyle Tucker and signaling the likely end of Alex Bregman’s tenure, the team’s focus shifts to its starting rotation—a unit that will be vital for their success. Here’s a breakdown of the Astros’ projected 2025 starting rotation:
1. Opening Day Starter: LHP Framber Valdez
Framber Valdez remains the ace of the Astros’ rotation despite being a potential trade candidate with free agency looming after 2025. Valdez brings reliability and leadership to the staff. Houston’s decision to keep him signals their intent to contend, at least for the short term, while exploring possible trade opportunities later.
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2. RHP Hunter Brown
Hunter Brown has cemented himself as a cornerstone of the Astros’ rotation. After a breakout 2024 season with a 3.49 ERA, 179 strikeouts, and a WAR of 2.6, the 26-year-old offers a powerful complement to Valdez at the top of the rotation. His continued development will be crucial to the team’s success.
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3. RHP Hayden Wesneski
Acquired in the Kyle Tucker trade, Hayden Wesneski may prove to be a key asset. While there is speculation about his future role—starter or reliever—the Astros are likely to give him an opportunity in the rotation. Wesneski’s ability to slot in as a dependable middle-rotation arm could make him a valuable addition.
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4. RHP Spencer Arrighetti
Arrighetti showed promise in his rookie season, despite a 7-13 record. With a 4.53 ERA and 171 strikeouts over 145 innings, the 25-year-old displayed the potential to develop into a reliable starter. Houston’s faith in Arrighetti’s growth likely earns him a spot in the rotation over other options like Ronel Blanco or Cristian Javier (who is still recovering from injury).
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5. RHP Justin Verlander
A potential reunion with Justin Verlander could be on the horizon. The future Hall of Famer struggled with injuries in 2024, which may result in a discounted one-year deal for a farewell tour in Houston. While his days as an elite starter may be over, Verlander’s veteran presence and leadership could provide immeasurable value to the younger arms on the staff.
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The Importance of the Rotation
The Astros’ 2025 rotation features a mix of proven talent and young promise. Valdez and Brown provide stability at the top, while Wesneski, Arrighetti, and Verlander round out the staff with varying degrees of experience and upside. This group will be the backbone of Houston’s effort to remain competitive in the division, especially as the team transitions away from its previous core.
While questions remain about the Astros’ long-term direction, their rotation gives them a foundation to build upon in 2025. The success of this group could ultimately determine whether Houston stays in contention or pivots toward a full rebuild.
