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sports14h ago
Astros Must Prioritize Hunter Brown Extension Despite Injury
- Brown emerged as a top starter in 2025, posting a 2.43 ERA over 185 1/3 innings and finishing third in AL Cy Young voting.
- In 2026, Brown opened with two strong starts before a Grade 2 shoulder strain put him on the injured list.
- The core question is whether the Astros should extend Brown before he reaches free agency in 2028.
- The article argues Houston must do everything possible to retain Brown long term, despite the injury.
- Brown has been healthy in MLB overall, appearing in 31 games in each of the last three seasons with rising innings totals.
- If Houston delays, Brown could test the open market after 2028, complicating their long-term plans.
- The piece underscores that Brown’s presence is key not just for this year, but for future Astros success.
- The author emphasizes prioritizing Brown as a long-term asset for Houston’s pitching staff.
- The article presents Brown as a future core for the Astros’ success beyond 2026.
- The piece notes Hunter Brown's rising workload and improved quality of outings over time.
- The article frames Brown’s extension as a prudent move to secure a cornerstone pitcher.
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