Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Nate Pearson, signed by the Houston Astros on a minor-league deal in October 2025, began the 2026 season on the injured list due to elbow soreness following offseason surgery. Initially intended to be stretched out as a rotation candidate, the Astros reversed course and are building him up as a reliever. After completing a seven-appearance rehab assignment with Triple-A Sugar Land, Pearson was close to activation by late May 2026. During rehab, he posted a 9.53 ERA over 5.2 frames in four appearances but demonstrated high velocity, reaching 101.3 mph on his fastball. He joined the Astros in Minnesota ahead of their series against the Twins and was expected to be activated during that series to bolster the bullpen.
Strengths
- + High velocity fastball (101.3 mph demonstrated)
- + Strong strikeout-to-walk ratio during rehab (8:10 K:BB)
- + Extensive major-league relief experience (117 of 123 career appearances in relief)
- + Close to activation and ready to contribute
- + Astros bullpen in need of reinforcement
Weaknesses
- - Elbow soreness and offseason surgery delayed start to season
- - Poor performance during rehab assignment (9.53 ERA in 5.2 frames)
- - Career 5.17 ERA in majors
- - Missed entire first month of season
- - Role change from starter to reliever indicates uncertainty about readiness
Injury Status: day-to-day
About
Nate Pearson is a rp for the Houston Astros.
Player Overview
RP
Houston Astros
Recent News
Astros Place Lance McCullers Jr. On Injured List
May 19, 2026
Astros Roster Moves: McCullers to IL; Meyers, Pearson Activated
May 19, 2026
Astros activated RHP Nate Pearson from the 15-day injured list.
May 19, 2026
Astros Place Lance McCullers Jr. On Injured List
May 19, 2026
Pe a, Meyers, Pearson could return next week; Hader, Brown make progress
May 16, 2026