These guys are making it easy for the bullpen

Verlander's six shutout innings CHICAGO -- The dominance of the Astros' starting rotation in the first three weeks of the season has had a ripple effect on the bullpen. Houston relievers had thrown the fourth fewest innings (62) in the Major Leagues entering Sunday, which could pay huge dividends going forward if the starters continue work deep into games.

Through 22 games, Astros starters had a 2.12 ERA in 135 2/3 innings, both tops in the Major Leagues. The Astros' bullpen ranked third in the Majors with a 2.61 ERA.

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"Any days you can take away from the bullpen will help them over the long stretch," Astros manager AJ Hinch said. "There was a stretch here I've used…