Familiar problem could torpedo Astros’ six-man rotation plans before they begin

Houston Astros Introduce Tatsuya Imai | Alex Slitz/GettyImagesNews that the Houston Astros plan to use a six-man rotation to start the 2026 campaign seems prudent at first glance. The remade group of starters is one part potential and one part uncertainty. As the Astros figure out who is ready for a leap and who is lagging behind, it makes sense to give as many guys as possible an opportunity.

An added bonus is that utilizing such a structure will help prized import Tatsuya Imai remain on the same kind of schedule he as accustomed to in Japan. Finally, extra rest for everybody could help avoid injuries, something that is especially important for the likes of Lance McCullers Jr. and Cristian…