Steven Okert’s Slider Revolution | Houston Astros News

Steven Okert’s become the Astros’ most reliable eighth-inning reliever this season, turning his bullpen into a fortress with a simple but smart tweak: he’s dialed back his fastball and leaned into his slider, which he now throws 68% of the time. The result? Opponents are hitting just .175 against him with an ERA of 2.19 and an average exit velocity of just 87 mph — few balls are even considered “hard-hit.” He’s striking out fewer batters, but his command and pitch selection have made him even more effective. This quiet breakout gives the Astros bullpen stability — and more flexibility at the trade deadline — as they focus on strengthening their starting rotation. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/6916cc671fab5746