Kai-Wei Teng Vies for Astros Rotation Spot, Walks a Concern

Astros pitcher Kai-Wei Teng looks to earn a starting role, but his history of control issues could hold him back.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 11:05am

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Kai-Wei Teng, a 27-year-old right-handed pitcher, is competing for a spot in the Houston Astros' starting rotation this spring. Teng was acquired from the San Francisco Giants in January and has appeared in 12 major league games over the past two seasons, struggling with control issues. While the Astros like Teng's potential, his high walk rate could be a hindrance as he battles for one of the final rotation spots on a team with several talented young arms.

Why it matters

The Astros have a deep pool of pitching talent, so Teng will need to prove he can overcome his control problems to earn a spot in the starting rotation. His ability to limit walks and pitch efficiently will be crucial, as the Astros have several other promising starters vying for limited rotation spots.

The details

Teng has pitched exclusively out of the bullpen so far this spring, posting a 3.18 ERA in 5 2/3 innings, though he has walked as many batters (4) as he has struck out. A starter throughout his minor league career, Teng will get the chance to show he can handle a starting role when he takes the mound against the St. Louis Cardinals on March 13. However, with established starters like Hunter Brown, Tatsuya Imai, Cristian Javier, and Mike Burrows already guaranteed spots, and Lance McCullers Jr. the favorite for the final rotation slot, Teng faces an uphill battle to crack the Opening Day roster.

  • Teng was acquired by the Astros from the San Francisco Giants in January 2026.
  • Teng has appeared in 12 major league games over the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
  • Teng will start against the St. Louis Cardinals on March 13, 2026.

The players

Kai-Wei Teng

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher competing for a spot in the Houston Astros' starting rotation.

Joe Espada

The Astros' bench coach, who has indicated the team is uncertain whether it will open the season with a six-man rotation.

Hunter Brown

One of the Astros' young pitchers who is guaranteed a spot in the starting rotation.

Tatsuya Imai

One of the Astros' young pitchers who is guaranteed a spot in the starting rotation.

Cristian Javier

One of the Astros' young pitchers who is guaranteed a spot in the starting rotation.

Mike Burrows

One of the Astros' young pitchers who is guaranteed a spot in the starting rotation.

Lance McCullers Jr.

The Astros' veteran pitcher who is the favorite for the final rotation spot.

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What they’re saying

“So for now, I personally like being a starter, but you know, whatever the team needs me to do, I'll do my best. My main goal is to help the team win.”

— Kai-Wei Teng (climbingtalshill.com)

What’s next

Teng will make a start against the St. Louis Cardinals on March 13 to showcase his ability to handle a starting role.

The takeaway

Kai-Wei Teng faces an uphill battle to earn a spot in the Astros' crowded starting rotation, as his history of control issues could be a hindrance. However, the Astros see potential in Teng and will give him opportunities to prove he can address his walk problems and solidify a role on the major league staff.