Astros Secure Deal with Pitcher Nate Pearson
Houston Astros have signed right-handed pitcher Nate Pearson to a one-year contract valued at $1.35 million. This deal marks Pearson’s opportunity to join the Astros’ starting rotation for the upcoming season. Previously, Pearson’s major league career primarily saw him pitching from the bullpen, with a brief stint as a starter during his debut with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2020.
Astros Secure Deal with Pitcher Nate Pearson
Pearson’s recent journey included time with the Chicago Cubs after a mid-season trade from Toronto in 2024. During his tenure with the Cubs, Pearson struggled in the majors, posting a 9.20 ERA over 14 2/3 innings. Despite these challenges, his performance at Triple-A Iowa was impressive, with a 2.22 ERA and a strikeout rate of 30.6% across 38 appearances.
Pearson’s Professional Background
- Debuted with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2020, starting four games.
- Returned to Triple-A after struggling early in the 2025 season with the Cubs.
- Finished the season with some strong outings, pitching four scoreless innings in August.
Hopes for the Future
Houston hopes Pearson’s pedigree and previous minor league success will translate to the major leagues. Initially drafted in the first round by Toronto in 2017, Pearson showed promise with a 2.30 ERA over 101 2/3 innings across three minor league levels in 2019.
Current Astros Rotation Challenges
| Pitcher | Status |
|---|---|
| Framber Valdez | Free Agent |
| Ronel Blanco | Tommy John Surgery |
| Luis Garcia | Tommy John Surgery |
| Brandon Walter | Tommy John Surgery |
| Spencer Arrighetti | Elbow Concerns |
| Cristian Javier | Injury History |
| Lance McCullers Jr. | Injury History |
| Hunter Brown | Currently Stable |
| Jason Alexander | From Depth Option to Key Rotation Member |
Given the injuries and uncertainties surrounding the rotation, Pearson’s signing provides the Astros with a potential starter. However, if starting doesn’t pan out, he might still contribute from the bullpen.
