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Astros Demote Struggling Pitcher Kai-Wei Teng After Tough Loss to Diamondbacks
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- Astros Demote Struggling Pitcher Kai-Wei Teng After Tough Loss to Diamondbacks
The Houston Astros made a bullpen change following Saturday night's extra-inning loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks .
Right-hander Kai-Wei Teng was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land, while the Astros recalled right-handed pitcher Miguel Ullola to take his place on the active roster.
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The move came shortly after Houston suffered a 4-3, 10-inning loss to Arizona, a game in which Teng struggled to keep the contest tied in the decisive inning.
The Astros announced the transactions through their official X account, with Houston continuing to make adjustments as it tries to protect its lead in the American League West.
Teng entered in the 10th inning and allowed one run while issuing two walks and recording one out on 17 pitches.
The outing proved costly for both Teng and the Astros, as Houston was unable to recover after Arizona pushed across the eventual winning run.
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Teng now heads back to Sugar Land as the Astros turn to Ullola for additional pitching depth during the final weeks of the regular season.
The 24-year-old Ullola has spent much of the season developing in the minors and will now receive another opportunity to contribute at the major league level.
His promotion also gives manager Joe Espada a fresh arm as Houston manages an increasingly taxed bullpen.
The Astros entered Sunday with a 73-70 record, holding a three-game lead over the Texas Rangers in the AL West.
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Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19)Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The Seattle Mariners were also within striking distance, sitting seven games behind Houston, leaving little room for error during the season's final stretch.
Houston has continued to deal with bullpen challenges, including the recent loss of left-hander Steven Okert to the injured list.
That has placed even greater importance on roster flexibility and fresh arms.
For Teng, Saturday's outing marked a difficult finish before his return to Triple-A. For Ullola, the transaction provides an opportunity to help Houston navigate a crucial stretch in its division race.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
