Joe Smith Stats

The Houston Astros activated relief pitcher Joe Smith (elbow) from the 10-day injured list on Wednesday and optioned infielder Taylor Jones to Triple-A Sugar Land in a corresponding move. Smith has been out since June 9 with right elbow soreness and had a rough 6.23 ERA and 1.78 WHIP in 17 1/3 relief innings for the 'Stros before his injury. However, he did record a 1.80 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 22/5 K/BB in his 25 relief innings during the regular season in 2020 and should be an upgrade to Houston's bullpen as a setup man if he's truly back to full health. Smith probably won't enter the saves mix and isn't likely to have much fantasy appeal in saves/holds leagues, but his return is notable for the Astros bullpen heading into the second half.

over 6 months ago

Houston Astros relief pitcher Joe Smith (elbow) started a minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Sugar Land on Thursday night. Barring a setback, Smith could certainly rejoin the club before the All-Star break. The right-handed reliever wasn't very good before going on the injured list, sporting a 6.23 ERA, 1.78 WHIP and 15/4 K/BB in 17 1/3 innings over 22 relief appearances. However, he has been a solid setup man in the past as a journeyman reliever and could become a solid bullpen piece for the Astros in the second half of the season. Even if Smith turns things around when he returns, he won't be much of a fantasy option in a middle-relief role.

over 6 months ago

Houston Astros relief pitcher Joe Smith (elbow) will throw a bullpen session on Friday. It sounds like Smith will use his whole arsenal at the session in Detroit. The hope is that things go well and Smith can be activated shortly after the session. However, he might be asked to go on a rehab assignment, which would sideline him longer. Smith has been out since early July and wasn't pitching well before the injury. He can be ignored in fantasy formats going forward.

over 6 months ago