Houston Astros Star Prospect Impressing Manager Early in Spring Training

One of the Houston Astros could potentially be playing his way into a roster spot if he continues to perform well in Spring Training.

The Houston Astros were able to mask, and partially address, some of the concerns surrounding their bullpen by signing Josh Hader to a megadeal this offseason.

Pairing him with Ryan Pressly on the backend should created one of the best end-of-inning units in the sport.

However, it's getting there that might become a bumpy ride.

Hector Neris, Phil Maton and Ryne Stanek all left in free agency, and Kendall Graveman suffered a likely season ending injury.

The Astros were able to trade for Dylan Coleman this winter to help, but he's much less of a proven commodity than their three departed relievers who were staples in their bullpen for the past few years.

General manager Dana Brown talked about the need for internal options to step up and fill this void.

Houston's star prospect Spencer Arrighetti was given a great opportunity to potentially be the answer after getting a Spring Training invite.

So far, he's been impressive according to first year manager Joe Espada.

"His first impression has been really good — how he carries himself. He acts like he belongs. His confidence level is solid. We're expecting him to provide some support this year at some point and his stuff is really good," he said as reported by Chandler Rome of The Athletic.

MLB Pipeline listed Arrighetti as the Astros' No. 3 overall prospect in 2023 and he was able to reach their Triple-A affiliate halfway through last year.

He didn't necessarily showcase his stuff in his 15 appearances and 13 starts. The right-hander posted an ERA of 4.64 across 64 innings pitched.

Hearing that the 24-year-old is showing confidence is also a good sign because he hasn't really proven he's an elite talent at the minor league level, with a career 4.44 ERA in 61 games and 40 starts.

Based on what Espada said, Houston fans should prepare to see Arrighetti pitch in the Majors at some point during the year.

When that time comes will be seen, but it looks the No. 3 prospect in their pipeline is going to debut in 2024.