If the "Big 4" Astros pitchers come back next season...who's the #5?

Apparently, the trainers and doctors who work with Carlos said that his arm strength should definitely be back at 100% by the start of next year's spring training... which coincides with the normal prognosis after surgery (1 year off to heal, then 1 year spent building up arm strength).

In the mean time, he's learned how to pitch effectively with what he's got... and he has good composure no matter what his stuff is like.

I say he gets the job hands down... (barring a completel collapse here to end the season), and that Gerry and co. use spring training to find guys who can pitch effectively in the bullpen. (mostly, a lefty specialist who gets lefties out... not you Gallo).

Also, Backe has all the makings of a dominating set-up man... but if he continues this hot streak as a starter... who knows.

Edit: Wild-cards to look for as future possible starters (in case Clemens doesn't come back, or further injuries to Wade, etc.)... Ezequiel Astacio has been lighting up the Texas league (kinda like Carlos did), and he may prove to be the better pitcher received in the Billy Wagner deal. Of course, Taylor Buckholz may continue to progress and live up to the promise that he didn't show at the start of the year (but he did have some dominating performances).

 

I don't think there is any question that Carlos Hernandez will go into the season as the #5 starter. Backe will be in the pen to start and will be the 1st emergency starter. He may also be trade bait.

Tim Redding and Brandon Duckworth will not be Astros (or Express, or Hooks) next season, IMO. Darren Oliver might still be around and will be middle relief and spot starter as well.

I have always liked Pete Munro, but I'm not too positive that he will be brought back.

 

With the luck of this pitching staff, who's number 6-10?