Astros Pitchers not enough counter to anemic offense, and The Wild NL West

In this episode of Back to the Bullpen, former big-league pitcher Mike Stanton and Brett Chancey break down the Houston Astros’ sluggish offensive start to the 2025 season. Despite high expectations, the lineup has struggled to find consistency at the plate, leaving fans frustrated. Brett and Mike discuss what’s gone wrong—whether it’s early-season rust, lineup construction, or simply running into strong opposing pitching.

While the bats have been cold, the Astros’ pitching has been a bright spot. The duo highlights standout performances from both the rotation and bullpen, emphasizing how the arms have kept Houston competitive despite the offensive woes. Stanton provides his insights as a former pitcher, explaining how the staff has navigated tough spots and why the early dominance could be sustainable.

Shifting to news around the league, the conversation turns to the National League West, where the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres have stormed out of the gates undefeated. Brett and Mike discuss what’s fueling these teams’ hot starts, the impact of offseason moves, and whether they can maintain this torrid pace throughout the season.

With sharp analysis and insider perspective, this episode delivers an honest look at where the Astros stand and what to watch for in the weeks ahead.

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