Astros Pitcher Forrest Whitley Talks 'Completely Different' Process Going From Starter To Bullpen

The Matt Thomas Show

Houston Astros pitcher Forrest Whitley joins The Matt Thomas Show after getting called up to the Majors as a part of the September roster expansion. Whitley was ranked the No. 1 prospect in the Astros farm system from 2018-21 but was unable to break out due to Tommy John surgery in 2021. When asked about quitting baseball, Whitley replied, "The thought never crossed my mind...a lot of pitchers go through injury," but "that's just a part of the game." Whitley transitioned to the bullpen this past offseason to have a better chance of contributing to the Astros, which paid off when he made his MLB debut on April 16. "The process is completely different" between preparing for a game as a starter versus a reliever. Whitley made an appearance for a single inning during Monday's 5-3 loss to the Cincinnati Reds. "I didn't feel nervous" because "I was prepared to get these outs." While the longtime prospect has endured a difficult journey to the Majors, Whitley maintains his confidence through every opportunity. "I thoroughly believe I can" pitch at this level. "I want to take it a day at a time."