The Astros' Quiet Rising Star: AJ Blubaugh's 2025 Breakthrough
The Houston Astros have a history of consistently producing impactful prospects, and 2025 was no exception. While the team didn't see the same level of immediate impact from its prospects as in previous years, one player quietly made a massive leap in performance. That player is right-hander AJ Blubaugh, who has quickly risen through the ranks and is now making waves in the major leagues.
Blubaugh's journey began in 2022 when he was drafted by the Astros in the 7th round out of the University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin. His 2023 season was solid, with a 4.41 ERA and 112 strikeouts in 100 innings between High-A and Double-A. However, it was his 2024 season that truly showcased his potential. With a 3.71 ERA and 128 strikeouts over 124.1 innings, all but one start coming in Triple-A, Blubaugh was a legitimate candidate for a call-up heading into 2025.
And he certainly didn't disappoint. Blubaugh opened the season strong in Triple-A, posting a 2.00 ERA over his first four outings, which earned him a promotion to Houston. His major league debut on April 30 was promising, as he struck out six over four innings while allowing seven runs, only two of which were earned. However, he was optioned back to Triple-A following the appearance.
The return to Triple-A wasn't easy for Blubaugh. Over his next eight outings, he struggled, posting a 9.70 ERA while allowing 40 runs in 34.1 innings. But he eventually found his footing, rebounding with a 2.94 ERA over his next seven outings, which earned him another call-up to Houston.
On August 5, Blubaugh played a crucial role in a bullpen game, working five innings and allowing just two runs, both on solo home runs, while striking out five. He demonstrated his versatility, generating seven swings and misses and touching 98 mph on his fastball. After being sent back to Triple-A, he made two more appearances before earning another call-up to Houston.
From August 23 through the end of the season, Blubaugh was dominant, posting a 0.78 ERA with 24 strikeouts over 23 innings. He showcased his ability to contribute in multiple roles, providing value both as a starter and out of the bullpen. His overall performance in his first major league season was impressive, with a 1.69 ERA and 35 strikeouts across 32 innings in 11 appearances for the Astros.
Despite the limited sample size, Blubaugh's numbers stood out. Opponents hit just .196 against his fastball and .207 against his sweeper, with an expected batting average of .167 on the latter. The sweeper also produced weak contact, averaging just 76.6 mph in exit velocity. Most remarkably, his changeup was exceptional, as he threw it 98 times without allowing a single hit, holding hitters to an 0-for-29 line.
Blubaugh's first major league season showcased his talent at the highest level. Given the Astros' lack of pitching for 2026, Blubaugh has put himself in a strong position to make a significant impact on the big league roster next year.
