Astros Likely Lose Two Relievers for Season End, Maintain AL West Lead

The Houston Astros have faced significant challenges with their pitching staff during the 2025 MLB season due to injuries and inconsistent performances. While aces Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown have delivered reliable outings, Lance McCullers Jr., despite a lucrative contract, has struggled significantly after returning from extended injury absences, posting a 6.97 ERA and a negative bWAR, leading to a demotion to the bullpen. Additionally, the Astros are likely to finish the regular season without relief pitchers Bennett Sousa and Kaleb Ort, both sidelined with elbow injuries, further taxing their bullpen depth as the team holds a narrow lead in the AL West. Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs are also battling bullpen issues, with reliever Daniel Palencia struggling and the team converting only 68.5% of their save opportunities, placing pressure on starters like Shota Imanaga to pitch deep into games. These pitching struggles are critical as both teams approach the postseason, highlighting the importance of health and consistency in the bullpen for sustained success.