Ronel Blanco has been a bright spot in a shaky start for the Houston Astros
Ronel Blanco’s brilliant start to the season is about the only thing going right for the Houston Astros
Ronel Blanco's brilliant start to the season is about the only thing going right for the Houston Astros.
Blanco threw 2024's first no-hitter Monday night against Toronto, then made it to the sixth against Texas on Sunday before allowing a hit. The problem for the Astros is what's happened on days Blanco didn't pitch. They have only one victory aside from his two starts.
After seven straight AL Championship Series appearances, Houston is considered a World Series contender again this year. And the Astros' record of 3-7 isn't worth panicking about. They've had a tough schedule, facing the Yankees, Blue Jays and Rangers, and their run differential of minus-4 isn't awful.
Houston has been without Justin Verlander, currently on a rehab assignment working his way back from shoulder issues. Injuries to Verlander and José Urquidy helped Blanco get a spot in the rotation, and he's certainly made a positive contribution so far. Christian Javier has also made two scoreless starts, and Framber Valdez has been solid.
