Reports: Astros sign LHP Jalen Beeks to minor league deal

The Houston Astros signed left-hander Jalen Beeks, the New York Post reported Friday. The Athletic reported that it will be a minor league deal.

Beeks is a six-year MLB veteran. He began his career with the Boston Red Sox, pitching only two games, before being traded to the Tampa Bay Rays for Nathan Eovaldi.

In Tampa, he appeared in 129 total games across five seasons, posting a 4.18 ERA. His best season came in 2022, when he recorded a 2.80 ERA and 70 strikeouts in 42 games.

Last season, Beeks played 45 games for the Colorado Rockies before being traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates in late July. Between the two teams, the 31-year-old recorded a 4.50 ERA and 1.486 WHIP with 55 strikeouts in 71 appearances.

Beeks' fastball averages 94.5 miles per hour. He also utilizes a changeup and cutter. Last season, he rarely threw his curveball (12 total pitches) or sinker (five total pitches).

This offseason, the Astros lost two key bullpen pieces in Ryan Pressly and Hector Neris. Kendall Graveman departed in free agency, as well, but he missed the entire 2024 season with a shoulder injury.

--Field Level Media