Astros Tap Relief Ace Blubaugh for Wild Card Game 1 vs. White Sox

The Houston Astros will open their Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox with a strategic "bullpen" game, naming relief pitcher AJ Blubaugh as their starter for Game 1. Blubaugh led the majors this season with 96 innings pitched in relief, highlighting the Astros' unconventional approach to kicking off the postseason.

This decision signals a focus on leveraging their deep bullpen from the outset of the series. The Astros aim to gain an early advantage against the White Sox, with Blubaugh expected to be the first of multiple pitchers to take the mound. The series begins Tuesday, with NBC Sports' Peacock providing coverage as part of NBC's extensive MLB playoff broadcast.