The Houston Astros have officially announced the signing of right-handed pitcher Shawn Dubin to replace Tayler Scott on the roster. This move follows Scott’s placement on the 15-day injured list due to a thoracic spine strain, creating a void in the Astros’ bullpen that Dubin is set to fill.
Shawn Dubin, who has spent time in the Astros’ Triple-A affiliate, Sugar Land, is seen as a valuable addition to the team’s pitching staff. Although he may not have the typical profile of a power pitcher, standing at 6 feet and weighing 164 pounds, Dubin possesses a strong fastball-slider combination that has impressed throughout his career. His fastball now averages around 95-97 mph, a significant improvement from his college days when it sat closer to 90 mph. Drafted in the 13th round of the 2018 MLB Draft, Dubin’s rise through the minor leagues has been steady, with his work ethic and potential earning him this spot in the majors.
Dubin made his MLB debut earlier in 2023 against the New York Mets, striking out the first batter he faced. Despite a challenging debut, he demonstrated potential that the Astros hope will translate into success as he steps into the bullpen rotation. In the 2024 season, Dubin has pitched 43.1 innings with a 4.15 ERA, contributing to the team’s overall performance with 45 strikeouts to his name.
This signing comes at a critical time for the Astros, who are making adjustments as they push towards securing a strong position in the playoffs. Tayler Scott, a reliable and seasoned reliever for Houston, has been instrumental in the team’s success this season. Before his injury, Scott appeared in 62 games, with a stellar 2.23 ERA, recording 71 strikeouts over 68.2 innings. His injury is a significant loss for the team, but Dubin’s recall aims to provide some needed relief.
The Astros’ decision to sign Dubin highlights the organization’s confidence in his ability to step up during this important stretch of the season. With the postseason on the horizon, Houston is focused on maintaining a solid pitching roster. Dubin, though less experienced than Scott, brings a fresh arm to the bullpen, and his previous performances suggest that he has the potential to make a positive impact in the remaining games.
Dubin’s call-up is part of a broader strategy by the Astros to keep their pitching depth strong as they aim for a deep playoff run. The team is relying on a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents to carry them through the final stretch of the season. The Astros have consistently been one of the top contenders in Major League Baseball, and the addition of Dubin to the active roster shows their continued commitment to ensuring they remain competitive at the highest level.
This latest move reflects Houston’s adaptability and depth, as they continue to make calculated roster changes to navigate the challenges of injuries and maintain a competitive edge. With Dubin now in the fold, the Astros hope to overcome the loss of Scott and push toward another successful postseason.