Still in the midst of the wild card race in the American League, the Houston Astros are looking to add a high-upside arm to the rotation. The team is reportedly set to promote top prospect David Paulino from Triple-A Fresno.
The 22-year-old Dominican was pitching to a 5-4 record with a 2.00 ERA and nearly 11 strikeouts per nine innings in 20 appearances (15) starts between Double-A and Triple-A. It's possible he might replace the injured Dallas Keuchel in the rotation.
The Astros ace was scratched from Tuesday's start against the Indians and is currently back in Houston undergoing tests with doctors. Manager A.J. Hinch indicated Monday that Keuchel was shut down with left shoulder inflammation. Though, there could be a bit more to this than simply a minor injury. Bringing up Paulino from Triple-A could definitely be an indication of that.
While we await for word on Houston's ace, Paulino might be someone to monitor in DFS contests should he be given an opportunity to start. Armed with a mid 90's fastball and some lethal stuff, the top prospect has put up huge numbers at the highest levels the minors has to offer. We'll definitely be keeping an eye on his Major League debut, which will likely come as a starter here soon.