Storage Shed Bullpen: REVIVAL: Astros Bullpen SURGES as Josh Hader, Bryan Abreu SHINE in 2026

Eric and Brett break down the 2026 Astros bullpen using our Shine / Grow / Next Steps format. In late May the pen was the worst in baseball; by season's end it was middle of the pack. We celebrate Josh Hader's return, Steven Okert's quiet dominance, Bryan Abreu's rebound, AJ Blubaugh's MLB-leading relief workload, and Miguel Ullola's late emergence. Then we dig into the walks, starters stashed in the pen, Bryan King's collapse, and lefties who couldn't get lefties out. Finally, we look at what Houston can learn from the White Sox, why young arms like Ullola and Alimber Santa deserve more trust, and whether to bring back Abreu.

Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey. As part of the Locked On Podcast Network, we bring you the latest Astros news, in-depth game analysis, player updates, and exclusive insights — every single weekday.

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