Texas Rangers: Pitcher Mike Hauschild Heads Back to Houston

The Rangers Rule-5 pick, pitcher Mike Hauschild did not work out as expected. He struggled heavily in his MLB appearances and likely threw his last pitch as a member of the Texas Rangers.

Finding pitching depth as been a problem for the Texas Rangers as injuries and lack of efficiency continue to haunt the team. On Thursday the Rangers designated pitcher Mike Hauschild for assignment and he cleared waivers on Saturday.

As part of the Rule-5 pick he was offered back to his original organization the Houston Astros for $50,000. The Astros accepted him and he was optioned to Triple-A Fresno.

It was a small sample size from Hauschild who pitched in just four games as a member of the Rangers. He pitched eight innings, allowing 14 hits, 10 earned runs, and five home runs. The home run rate was really the biggest problem for Hauschild.

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The 27-year-old pitched well in the Astros minors last season. As a starting pitcher Hauschild went 9-11 with a 3.09 ERA in 29 starts in 2016. He allowed just seven home runs in 163 innings of work.

The ridiculous home run rate was something the Rangers could not ignore. He was getting destroyed on the mound, and the team made the right decision. The Rangers recalled relief pitcher Anthony Bass which made Hauschild the odd man out.

Originally Bass did not make the Rangers Opening Day roster, but strong performances in Triple-A have opened a door for him. He pitched in three games in Triple-A Round Rock, allowing just two hits in eight innings with 16 strikeouts.

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Right now the Rangers desperately need bullpen help and hopefully Bass can offer that. It’s always sad to see someone go, but Hauschild just wasn’t working out in Arlington.