Forrest Whitley, once heralded as a top pitching prospect for the Houston Astros, is gearing up for a pivotal season. Whitley made his major-league debut in April 2023, but the outing from the bullpen was rocky, and he faced challenges throughout the season, including an elbow injury that sidelined him. However, his return to Triple-A Sugar Land showcased his potential, as he posted a 0.95 ERA over his last 28 1/3 innings.

As the Astros prepare for the upcoming season, Whitley's role remains uncertain, especially with the departure of veteran reliever Ryan Pressly. He must now compete for a spot in a revamped bullpen, alongside new candidates. Manager Joe Espada has indicated that Whitley could be utilized in longer relief outings, which would be a departure from his previous one-inning stints. Whitley's ability to adapt and showcase his talent in spring training could ultimately decide his future with the Astros.