Brandon Bielak
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2024Neon13132045083.277463257164.95
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Sep 22 2024Oakland designated Bielak for assignment Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After throwing four scoreless innings against the Cubs on Sept. 16, Bielak unraveled in his latest appearance Friday against the Yankees, allowing four runs on two hits and four walks over 1.2 innings. He'll be replaced on the roster by Joe Boyle, who was recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas.
Sep 8 2024The Athletics selected Bielak's contract from Triple-A Las Vegas on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll provide Oakland will a fresh arm out of the bullpen heading into Sunday's series finale with the Tigers while he joins the Athletics' 28-man roster as a replacement for lefty Brady Basso, who was sent back to Las Vegas after starting in Saturday's 2-1 loss. After being acquired from the Astros in mid-May, Bielak gave up two earned runs across 5.2 innings over his three relief appearances before Oakland cast him off its 40-man roster two weeks following the trade.
May 25 2024The Athletics designated Bielak for assignment Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move comes with the Athletics recalling right-hander Tyler Ferguson from Triple-A Las Vegas. Oakland acquired Bielak from the Houston on May 16 after the Astros DFA'd the 28-year-old right-hander May 11. Bielak appeared in three games for the Athletics, and he did not give up a run over his last two outings. He's out of minor-league options, but Bielak should still draw interest from teams that are in need of right-handed depth in the bullpen.
May 24 2024Bielak (1-0) picked up the win in an extra-innings victory over the Rockies on Thursday, allowing a hit and a walk over one-third of an inning. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak came into the game with runners at the corners and two outs in the top of the 11th, and after allowing both inherited runners to score, he was able to strike out Jordan Beck to end the inning. That set the stage for the unlikeliest of victories, as the Athletics mounted a five-run rally in the home half of the frame to walk it off. Bielak, who was just acquired via trade from the Astros on May 16, has allowed two earned runs on eight hits and a walk over 5.2 innings across three appearances since his arrival.
May 16 2024The Athletics acquired Bielak from the Astros on Thursday in exchange for cash considerations, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak had been designated for assignment and will wind up staying in the American League West. He's out of minor-league options, so the Athletics will need to add him to their active roster. Bielak holds a 5.71 ERA and 1.76 WHIP over 17.1 relief innings this season. While he's pitched exclusively out of the bullpen in 2024, the 28-year-old has plenty of past starting experience, so he could be an option for an Oakland rotation that needs arms.
May 11 2024The Astros designated Bielak for assignment Saturday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move comes with Houston reinstating right-hander Cristian Javier (neck) off the 15-day injured list. Bielak made the Opening Day roster due to multiple injuries to the Astros' pitching staff and he appeared in 10 games out of the bullpen, posting a 5.71 ERA and 1.76 WHIP over 17.1 innings. Bielak is out of minor-league options, but he could draw interest from teams looking for right-handed depth in the bullpen.
Mar 18 2024Bielak is likely to make the big-league roster out of spring training due to a combination of injuries to the Astros pitching staff, and because he is out of minor-league options, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak hasn't pitched well this spring, allowing six earned runs across 7.1 innings while maintaining just a 5:4 K:BB. However, with both Justin Verlander (shoulder) and Jose Urquidy (forearm) destined for the injured list to begin the campaign, the Astros are in need of pitching depth. As things currently stand, Bielak is expected to serve in a relief role, with Ronel Blanco serving as the fifth starter.
Feb 14 2024Bielak could be in consideration for a rotation spot to begin the regular season, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros were hit with injuries to both Justin Verlander (shoulder) and J.P. France (shoulder) to start spring training. Depending on their availability to begin the regular season, Houston could immediately be reliant upon depth in their pitching staff. Bielak would likely be at the top of the list, as he made 13 major-league starts last season and is also out of minor-league options.
Aug 25 2023Houston optioned Bielak to Triple-A Sugar Land on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak allowed three earned runs over 5.1 innings of long relief in the Astros' blowout loss to the Red Sox on Thursday. He threw 112 pitches during that appearance and wasn't going to be available for the next handful of days.
Aug 24 2023Houston recalled Bielak from Triple-A Sugar Land on Thursday, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak has worked as a fill-in starter at times this year for the Astros, but he'll return Thursday in a long-relief role. The 27-year-old right-hander carries a 3.74 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 59:33 K:BB through 74.2 major-league innings in 2023.
Jul 31 2023Bielak was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land on Monday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Jose Urquidy (shoulder) rejoining Houston's rotation later this week, Bielak was sent to the minors to allow the Astros to bolster the bullpen in the short term. Bielak had a 2.63 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and a 22:15 K:BB in 27.1 innings over his last five starts.
Jul 24 2023Bielak pitched 4.2 innings against Texas on Monday, allowing six runs (three earned) on six hits and four walks while striking out five batters in a no-decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak's final line was softened a bit by the fact that three of the runs against him were unearned, but it was nonetheless a poor outing by the right-hander. He threw just 59 of 102 pitches for a strike and tied a season high with four walks while surrendering a pair of long balls. Nonetheless, Bielak managed to escape with a no-decision thanks to a productive performance by Houston's offense, keeping his record even at 5-5. Bielak had been pitching well in July coming into Monday, posting a 1.02 ERA and 0.85 WHIP over three starts, so the rough outing shouldn't impact his place in the rotation for now. However, Jose Urquidy (shoulder) is on track to return to the rotation in early August, which could send Bielak to the bullpen.
Jul 19 2023Bielak (5-5) earned the win Wednesday, allowing one hit and three walks over 5.2 scoreless innings against the Rockies. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak held the Rockies to one hit in the winning effort, though came an out short of logging a quality start after walking a pair in the sixth inning. Bielak has impressed since returning from Triple-A in early July, going 2-1 with a 1.02 ERA and a 0.85 WHIP across three starts (17.2 innings). Overall, the 27-year-old right-hander's ERA is down to 3.46 with a 1.40 WHIP and 50:26 K:BB through 65 innings this season. Bielak should have a safe role in Houston's rotation until Jose Urquidy (shoulder) is ready to return from the IL. He's lined up for a tough home matchup with the Rangers early next week.
Jul 10 2023Bielak (4-5) took the loss Sunday against the Mariners, allowing three runs (two earned) on four hits and a walk while striking out five over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak blanked the Mariners through the first three frames but could not escape trouble in the fourth. The inning started with a fielding error and a hit batsman before two doubles plated three runs. Bielak kept the Mariners' bats in check otherwise, and although he was a little wild hitting two batters, he only issued one walk after walking four in his last start. The 27-year-old now holds a 3.79 ERA, 1.47 WHIP and 46:23 K:BB over 59.1 innings and should be good for at least a few more starts until Jose Urquidy (shoulder) is ready to return from the injured list.
Jul 4 2023Bielak (4-4) earned the win Tuesday, allowing two hits and four walks over seven scoreless innings in a 4-1 victory over the Rockies. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In his first MLB appearance since being optioned to Triple-A on June 17, Bielak recorded his first scoreless outing of the campaign. Tuesday's performance was also Bielak's longest start of 2023 and was just the third time he's lasted more than six innings. However, Bielak also set a season high in walks. After the strong showing, Bielak's ERA is down to 3.81 while holding a 41:22 K:BB and a 1.6 HR/9 through 54.1 innings.
Jul 3 2023Bielak will start for the Astros on Tuesday against the Rockies, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros will push J.P. France back a day and also give Framber Valdez (ankle) a little extra time. Bielak has posted a 4.37 ERA and 37:18 K:BB over 47.1 innings this season, making eight starts and one relief appearance. The Rockies away from Coors Field is about as good of a matchup as it gets, but Bielak still isn't a great streaming option.
Jun 18 2023Houston optioned Bielak to Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak was once again ineffective in his outing Saturday, allowing five runs (four earned) on five hits over 4.2 innings versus the Reds. The right-hander will get a chance to iron things out at the minor-league level, and Houston recalled Shawn Dubin from Sugar Land in a corresponding transaction.
Jun 17 2023Bielak (3-4) took the loss Saturday, allowing five runs (four earned) on five hits and three walks over 4.2 innings against Cincinnati. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak has allowed a season-high five runs in back-to-back starts after giving up just 15 over his first seven outings combined. The right-hander has surrendered at least one home run in seven of his nine appearances, totaling 10 over 57.1 innings. Despite Bielak's struggles, he figures to remain in the rotation until Jose Urquidy (shoulder) or Luis Garcia (elbow) returns from the injured list.
Jun 12 2023Bielak (3-3) took the loss Sunday, allowing five runs on nine hits and two walks over five innings in a 5-0 loss to Cleveland. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After picking up back-to-back wins in his last two appearances, Bielak fell to his third loss of the season Sunday. He allowed a season-high five runs across five innings while giving up long balls to Andres Gimenez and Josh Bell. Though Bielak sports a solid 4.01 ERA through eight starts (42.2 innings), he's struggled with the long ball (1.9 HR/9) and has allowed nine or more hits in each of his last two appearances. His next start is tentatively scheduled to come during a homestand versus Cincinnati,
Jun 5 2023Bielak (3-2) allowed three runs on 10 hits and a walk over 6.2 innings Monday, striking out two and earning a win over the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't a very clean outing for Bielak but he was given six runs of support before throwing his first pitch so he cruised to an easy win. He tied his longest outing of the year despite punching out just two batters. The 27-year-old righty is carrying a 3.35 ERA and a 30:13 K:BB through 37.2 frames. Bielak is currently lined up to start in Cleveland this weekend.
May 31 2023Bielak (2-2) allowed one run on three hits and three walks while striking out six over 5.2 innings to earn the win over the Twins on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tuesday was the third time over his last four starts that Bielak has held an opponent to one run or fewer. The 27-year-old blanked the Twins over his first four innings before a leadoff double and a single in the fifth finally got them on the board. He hasn't faced any majorly daunting offenses through six starts thus far, though he's shown struggles with his command and has allowed six home runs. A 5.15 FIP suggests Bielak has had some luck on his side, but he'll figure to stick around in the rotation as long as he's getting results. He'll take a 3.19 ERA, 1.45 WHIP and 28:12 K:BB into his next projected outing against the Angels over the weekend.
May 24 2023Bielak (1-2) took the loss Wednesday, allowing four runs on five hits and one walk over 6.2 innings during a 4-0 loss to the Brewers. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Three of Bielak's five hits allowed were home runs, including a two-run shot by Willy Adames in the first inning. Despite surrendering a season-high four runs, Wednesday's performance was actually the longest of the year for Bielak, who's drawn five consecutive starts since being recalled from Triple-A Sugar Land at the beginning of May. The right-hander holds a 3.55 ERA across 25.1 innings and figures to remain in the rotation until Jose Urquidy (shoulder), Luis Garcia (elbow) or Lance McCullers (forearm) is activated off the injured list.
May 19 2023Bielak (1-1) allowed a run on five hits and three walks while striking out nine over five innings to earn the win Friday over the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak has completed five innings in each of his last two starts. He's still allowing a high number of baserunners, but other teams have yet to fully capitalize on that fact yet. The right-hander has a solid 2.89 ERA, but his 1.77 WHIP and 19:8 K:BB through 18.2 innings show that he's got a number of flaws to work out. Bielak is projected for a much tougher road start next week in Milwaukee.
May 14 2023Bielak did not factor in the decision against the White Sox on Saturday, allowing one run on eight hits and no walks while striking out four batters over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak allowed at least one hit in each of his five frames, but the only run he surrendered came on a Luis Robert homer in the fourth inning. Bielak helped his case by not issuing any walks after yielding five free passes across 8.2 frames over his first two big-league outings of the season. The right-hander is in the rotation as a result of long-term injuries to Jose Urquidy (shoulder), Lance McCullers (forearm) and Luis Garcia (elbow), and he pitched well enough Saturday to likely see additional starts. Bielak's next turn is tentatively slated to be a favorable home matchup against Oakland.
May 11 2023Bielak is scheduled to make his second start with the Astros on Saturday against the White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Until Lance McCullers (forearm) is deemed ready for his 2023 debut, the Astros will have room in the rotation for both Bielak and J.P. France, after the two moved into starting roles last week when Jose Urquidy (shoulder) and Luis Garcia (elbow) were shut down with long-term injuries. After having previously made his season debut with the Astros in long relief May 1, Bielak stepped into the rotation last Sunday in Seattle and took a loss after surrendering three runs (two earned) on 10 hits and two walks while failing to strike out a batter over 4.2 innings.
May 7 2023Bielak (0-1) allowed three runs (two earned) on 10 hits and two walks over 4.2 innings Sunday against Seattle. He took the loss and failed to record a strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak had traffic on the bases nearly the entire afternoon and never found much of a groove. He escaped danger in the first two frames before serving up a solo shot to Julio Rodriguez to lead off the third. Bielak is sporting a 4.15 ERA and a 6:5 K:BB through 8.2 innings. He's currently projected for a road matchup with the White Sox next week.
May 5 2023Astros manager Dusty Baker announced Friday that Bielak will start Sunday's game against the Mariners, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Brown will start the series finale against Seattle on Sunday with Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez pitching Monday and Tuesday against the Angels. Bielak pitched reasonably well in relief of Luis Garcia on Monday with six strikeouts over four innings while allowing two runs on two hits with three walks. Bielak should be stretched out enough to qualify for a win chance while he's getting starts with the Astros, but he's far from an elite fantasy option and he'll be matchup dependent in terms of recommendation.
May 2 2023Bielak did not factor into the decision during Monday's 7-3 win over the Giants, allowing two runs on two hits and three walks while striking out six over four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak was recalled from Triple-A Sugar Land on Monday to replace Jose Urquidy, who was placed on the 15-day injured list with shoulder discomfort. Luis Garcia drew the start versus San Francisco, but his outing lasted just eight pitches due to a right elbow injury, forcing Bielak to eat up as many innings as he could. The right-hander was a bit shaky with three walks over four innings and surrendered a two-run homer to Joc Pederson, but that was the lone blemish on an otherwise successful night for Bielak. With so many injuries to Houston's rotation, Bielak, who operated as a starter and reliever in the minors, could get a spot start or two moving forward.
May 1 2023Houston recalled Bielak from Triple-A Sugar Land on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak is the reinforcement for the Astros after Houston placed Jose Urquidy on the 15-day injured list with shoulder discomfort. The right-hander has worked as both a starter and reliever in the minors and majors, but he likely will be a multi-inning bullpen option for Houston while he's on the roster.
Sep 9 2022Bielak was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak spent the last week and a half in the Astros' bullpen but made just one appearance during his time in the big leagues, allowing a run on two hits and a walk while striking out two in two innings. He'll head back to the minors after Ryan Pressly (neck) was reinstated from the 15-day injured list.
Aug 30 2022The Astros recalled Bielak from Triple-A Sugar Land on Tuesday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak has pitched to a 3.58 ERA in 27.2 innings since being sent down July 21. Prior to the demotion, the righty had a 3.48 mark in 10.1 big-league innings and he figures to handle long-relief work for however long he's with the Astros.
Jul 21 2022Bielak was returned to Triple-A Sugar Land following Thursday's doubleheader against the Yankees, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak ate up a valuable 3.1 innings in the second game of the doubleheader, though he did allow three earned runs on four hits and a walk while striking out four. He'll remain on the taxi squad, so he could return to the big-league club in short order if an injury strikes the bullpen.
Jun 26 2022Bielak was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak was recalled by the Astros in early June and was effective while serving as a multi-inning option. He posted a 1.29 ERA and 1.00 WHIP in seven innings over three relief appearances but will head back to the minors since the team will call up Enoli Paredes.
Jun 7 2022Bielak was recalled from Triple-A Sugar Land on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak was demoted to Triple-A just before Opening Day and will now receive his first look in the majors this season. The 26-year-old appeared in 28 games for the Astros in 2021 and had a 4.50 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 46:21 K:BB over 50 innings.
Apr 3 2022The Astros optioned Bielak to Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In addition to Bielak, the Astros also optioned Seth Martinez to Triple-A, clearing the way for Ronel Blanco and Bryan Abreu to secure the final two spots in Houston's Opening Day bullpen, according to Rome. Bielak had been competing for a long-relief role with Houston, but he could stretch out for starting duty as he heads to Sugar Land.
Oct 3 2021The Astros optioned Bielak to Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty allowed three runs in his most recent appearance Sept. 24 and finished the regular season with a 4.50 ERA and 1.38 WHIP in 50 innings. Bielak is unlikely to make Houston's postseason roster.
Sep 24 2021Bielak (3-4) allowed three earned runs on four hits and two walks while striking out three across three innings, taking the loss to the Athletics on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak surrendered a three-run third inning, allowing four straight batters to reach base safely with one out. It was the first runs he's allowed in his last seven appearances dating back to July 17. As of late, Bielak has struggled with walks, issuing 10 free bags in his last 11.2 innings. The 25-year-old has a 4.50 ERA and 1.38 WHIP with 46 punchouts in 50 innings this season.
Sep 20 2021Bielak was recalled from Triple-A Sugar Land on Monday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak was optioned Saturday but is back already without having made a minor-league appearance. He'll offer length out of the bullpen for the Astros, as he's done for most of the season.
Sep 18 2021Bielak was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land on Saturday, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak would likely have been unavailable for a few days after he was called upon to throw 2.2 innings in a spot start Friday. The Astros elected to swap him out for a fresh arm, calling up Peter Solomon to take his place.
Sep 17 2021Bielak pitched 2.2 scoreless innings against Arizona on Friday, allowing three hits and two walks while striking out six. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-handed reliever was called into action for a spot start after Framber Valdez (finger) was scratched Thursday. Bielak performed well enough in his first start of the campaign, keeping the Diamondbacks off the scoreboard while racking up six punchouts in just 2.2 frames. He wasn't very efficient -- Bielak needed 55 pitches to retire eight batters -- but none of the hits against him went for extra bases, and he was able to escape a bases-loaded situation in the first inning. He'll likely return to the bullpen but will almost certainly be down a few days given his larger-than-normal workload Friday.
Sep 16 2021Bielak will draw a spot start Friday against the Diamondbacks, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros had to scratch Framber Valdez (finger) from Thursday's start, so the team is shuffling its rotation as a result. Bielak has pitched exclusively out of the bullpen to this point in the season, though he has completed three innings in each of his last two outings. Even so, it's unlikely he'll be able to work deep enough into the contest to qualify for a win.
Sep 7 2021Bielak pitched three scoreless innings Monday against the Mariners to pick up the save. He allowed just one hit and walked four while striking out three batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros won this game by nine runs, but because Bielak threw the final three innings, he gets the save. He struggled with his command and had the bases loaded with one out in the ninth after walking back-to-back batters, but got Cal Raleigh to ground into a 3-6-3 double play to end the game. Bielak owns a 4.79 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 36:15 K:BB over 41.1 innings and likely won't figure to see any more save chances the rest of the way.
Aug 30 2021Bielak was recalled from Triple-A Sugar Land on Monday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak has been stretching out at Triple-A Sugar Land recently, and he tossed five innings during his last appearance. The right-hander will be available as a long reliever in the Astros' bullpen after Bryan Abreu was sent down Monday.
Jul 31 2021Bielak was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land on Saturday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak made just four relief appearances since the start of July, and he recorded a win with a 2.35 ERA and 0.78 WHIP in 7.2 innings. His removal from the active roster will make room for newly acquired Phil Maton.
Jun 29 2021Bielak (2-3) allowed five earned runs on four hits and a walk while striking out three across 1.1 innings, taking the loss Monday to the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak retired the side in the eighth inning, but recorded just one out while allowing five runs to score in the ninth frame. He surrendered a two-run home run to Austin Hays. The 25-year-old has struggled as of late, giving up 10 runs over his last five appearances. He has a 6.21 ERA with 26 strikeouts in 29 innings.
Jun 9 2021The Astros recalled Bielak from Triple-A Sugar Land on Wednesday, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak joins the Houston bullpen as a replacement for Joe Smith (elbow), who was placed on the 10-day injured list in a corresponding move. The 25-year-old right-hander previously made 13 relief appearances for Houston, posting a 3.97 ERA, 1.24 WHIP and a 17:8 K:BB in 22.2 innings.
May 30 2021Bielak was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old allowed four unearned runs over the past two days and will head to the minors in favor of a fresh arm. Bielak has a 3.97 ERA, 1.24 WHIP and 17:8 K:BB across 22.2 innings for Houston this season.
May 13 2021Bielak (2-2) was credited with the win in relief Wednesday, when he allowed one run on two hits and one walk while striking out two against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak entered during the fourth inning with Houston leading 3-0 after starter Jose Urquidy departed with "posterior shoulder discomfort." The reliever retired 10 of the first 11 Angels faced and threw 41 strikes among his 53 pitches. Urquidy, who was sharper Wednesday than in any of his seven preceding starts, is day-to-day and has not been ruled out for his next start scheduled for Tuesday in Oakland.
May 5 2021Bielak (1-1) was tagged with the loss Tuesday, giving up two runs on two hits and one walk while striking out one in a 7-3 loss to the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak, who entered after starter Zack Greinke lasted just four innings, pitched a scoreless fifth before departing with two on and two out in the sixth. Bryan Abreu came in and walked the nine-hole hitter before an Alex Bregman throwing error cleared the bases. Bielak, a starter turned reliever, has thrown more than one inning in five of his six outings and has a 4.30 ERA over 14.2 innings.
Apr 22 2021Bielak allowed two runs on four hits and one walk while striking out two over two innings in Wednesday's 6-3 loss to the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was the third multi-inning outing in four appearances for Bielak. He's been part of a bullpen that's been overworked of late, as Astros starters not named Zack Grienke haven't been getting deep into games. In four appearances, Bielak has a 3.60 ERA and 1.10 WHIP over 10 innings.
Apr 4 2021Bielak (1-0) earned the win Sunday against Oakland, striking out four in 4.2 innings of relief without allowing a single baserunner. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's rare that the reliever who picks up a win after a starter fails to throw five innings truly deserves the honor, but this is not one of those cases. Bielak's innings weren't particularly stressful, as he entered with a four-run lead in the bottom of the fifth and saw that extended to seven runs in the top of the sixth, but he couldn't have handled his assignment much more impressively. Bielak isn't the sort of pitcher who would be expected to retire 14 straight batters, as he struggled to a 6.75 ERA and 1.75 WHIP in his 32-inning debut last season, but it's possible his outing signals the start of something new.
Mar 31 2021Bielak will serve as a reliever to begin the regular season, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak was in the mix to start the Astros' fifth game of the regular season Monday, but manager Dusty Baker said Wednesday that Luis Garcia will serve as the team's fifth starter while Jake Odorizzi (conditioning) is unavailable. Bielak should take on a multi-inning role out of the bullpen this season. The right-hander made five appearances (two starts) this spring and posted a 4.50 ERA and 1.00 WHIP in 16 innings.
Mar 28 2021Bielak or Luis Garcia will start the fifth game of the regular season, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak, who's been a fill-in starter for the Astros during spring training, will have a multi-inning role to start the regular season. It's just comes down to whether that will be as a starter or out of the bullpen. The No. 5 starter job will eventually belong to Jake Odorizzi once he's built up innings and pitch count. Until then, Bielak or Garcia will serve in that role, and whichever one doesn't start will be part of the bullpen.
Mar 26 2021Bielak allowed two hits and two walks while striking out three over four scoreless innings in Thursday's game against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was likely Bielak's final appearance during Grapefruit League play. While he allowed eight runs over 16 spring innings, the right-hander finished strong with two runs allowed in nine innings across the last two outings. He's expected to help the Astros get through the first couple of turns of the rotation, as Jake Odorizzi, Luis Garcia and Cristian Javier are not stretched out enough to go deep into games.
Mar 6 2021Bielak did not allow a hit or walk while striking out three over three scoreless relief innings in Friday's spring game against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak had a brutal Grapefruit League debut last Sunday when he allowed four runs and two home runs over two innings, but his bounce-back performance, in which he threw 29 strikes among 33 pitches, came at a time when his importance increased. The Astros continue to evaluate starter Framber Valdez's fractured left ring finger, while Luis Garcia and Cristian Javier are sidelined by health and safety protocols. Those developments could lead to Bielak, who started six games for Houston in 2020, becoming a member of this year's rotation.
Feb 25 2021Bielak will start the Astros' first Grapefruit League contest Sunday, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak contributed significantly to the Astros in 2020, throwing 32 innings both as a starter and reliever. However, he didn't have consistent success, as he posted a 6.75 ERA and 1.75 WHIP with a 26:17 K:BB. Houston made a number of additions to their bullpen this offseason -- most significant of which were Pedro Baez and Steve Cishek -- which means Bielak is likely to begin the season at Triple-A Sugar Land.
Sep 27 2020Bielak was optioned to the alternate training site Sunday, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak surrendered four runs over two innings Saturday, so he'll head to the alternate site in favor of a fresh bullpen arm. He has a 6.75 ERA, 1.75 WHIP and 26:17 K:BB across 32 innings this season. Nivaldo Rodriguez was recalled in a corresponding move.
Sep 6 2020Bielak didn't factor into the decision in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Angels, giving up four runs on seven hits over 3.2 innings in a 10-9 loss. He struck out five without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He put his name in the history books by serving up Mike Trout's 300th career homer, but it was an otherwise forgettable effort from Bielak, who needed 77 pitches (52 strikes) to record 11 outs. He'll likely move into long relief from here on out, and the rookie's 6.00 ERA and 1.59 WHIP make him an unappealing fantasy option in a low-leverage role.
Sep 3 2020Manager Dusty Baker said Thursday that he expects Bielak and Jose Urquidy (undisclosed) to make starts in Saturday's doubleheader against the Angels in some order, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baker suggested Wednesday that Cy Sneed and Luis Garcia were candidates to make starts in the twin bill, but Urquidy apparently impressed in his throwing session Thursday, leaving Houston optimistic he'll be ready to make his season debut this weekend. Meanwhile, Bielak will be given another chance to redeem himself after two rough outings in a row, during which he recorded only six outs while giving up 11 runs (10 earned) on eight hits and four walks. Assuming Urquidy feels fine coming out of his start, he should permanently take over as the fifth member of Houston's rotation, likely bumping Bielak to the bullpen next week as a result. If Bielak shows improved form in Saturday's outing, he would at least cement himself as the next man up to start if a rotation spot should reopen at some point.
Aug 26 2020Bielak (3-2) did not make it out of the first inning and took the loss in the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Angels. He allowed four runs (three earned) on three hits and three walks in two-thirds of an inning in the 12-5 loss. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak made the start on short rest so the outcome is not surprising. The rookie hurler managed to sidestep trouble earlier this season, when he walked 11 over the first 21.1 innings, but major league hitters have caught up to him. Bielak's allowed 11 runs on eight hits (four home runs) and three walks over the last two innings. With off days coming up on the schedule, the Astros can avoid using Bielak until Sept. 5.
Aug 25 2020Bielak will start Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Angels, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He will be making the start on two days of rest, but only logged 1.1 innings in his Aug. 22 start against the Padres, so he is more rested than a typical starter on short rest. This would have been his day to toss a side session, so he will essentially get that work in during a game that counts in what should amount to a bullpen game for the Astros. Houston won't need a fifth starter again until a doubleheader against the Angels on Sept. 5, so we could see Bielak briefly transition to the bullpen or the alternate training site following Tuesday's start.
Aug 23 2020Bielak (3-1) took the loss against San Diego on Saturday, pitching 1.1 innings and allowing seven runs on five hits and one walk while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak entered the game having given up four earned runs through his first 21.1 big-league innings, but the Padres nearly doubled that run total while making only four outs against the rookie. Of the five hits given up by Bielak, four were home runs, including a pair of long balls off the bat of Trent Grisham. Bielak's ERA soared from 1.69 to 4.37 as a result of his first major-league loss, and the outing was the shortest of his career. The 24-year-old will try to recover when he next takes the mound Thursday at home against the Angels.
Aug 17 2020Bielak (3-0) gave up a run on a hit and four walks and struck out four over six innings in Monday's 2-1 win over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only hit Bielak gave up was a solo home run to Trevor Story in the third inning. Monday marked Bielak's first win as a starter -- his previous two victories came in relief efforts. The 24-year-old has a 1.69 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 15 strikeouts in 21.1 innings across five total appearances this season. His next turn in the rotation is Saturday in San Diego.
Aug 12 2020Bielak didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's contest between the Astros and the Giants. He gave up two runs on six hits and one walk while fanning four in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak has looked serviceable in his first two starts of the season, giving up just two runs in a combined 10 innings, although he owns a 5:4 K:BB in that span. If he stays in the rotation for another start, that would come Aug. 17 at home against the Rockies.
Aug 10 2020Bielak is slated to start Tuesday's game against the Giants, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak made his first two MLB appearances in long relief for the Astros before he was thrust into the rotation Aug. 6 in Arizona as a replacement for Josh James, who was moved to the bullpen. The right-hander was highly impressive in his first big-league start, spinning five shutout innings and permitting five baserunners in the Astros' loss. He'll draw a favorable matchup Tuesday in his second career start, taking the hill at home against a Giants offense that hasn't scored more than five runs in any of its last six games.
Aug 6 2020Bielak did not factor into the decision during Thursday's loss. He held the Diamondbacks scoreless with one strikeout across five innings, allowing two hits and three walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his first career start, Bielak had no problem blanking the Diamondbacks over five innings of work. The 24-year-old left the game with the lead but unfortunately, Arizona evened the score and soon took the lead for good. Bielak had previously allowed just one run over his two bullpen appearances this season, bringing his ERA to 0.87 and WHIP to 1.16. Although he was making a spot start, the right-hander just may have earned himself another turn in the rotation. If so, he's projected to battle the Giants on Tuesday.
Aug 5 2020Bielak is scheduled to start Thursday against the Diamondbacks, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak has made a pair of appearances out of the bullpen this season, allowing one run while posting a 6:3 K:BB across 5.1 innings. Seeing as the right-hander isn't fully stretched out, he likely won't pitch long enough to qualify for the win. It remains to be seen whether Bielak will stick in the rotation beyond Thursday's spot start.
Jul 31 2020Bielak (2-0) walked three batters and struck out two over two innings to earn the win Friday versus the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Starter Lance McCullers was only able to pitch four innings, with Bielak serving in a multi-inning role to collect his second win of the year. Bielak has a 1.69 ERA and 1.31 WHIP with six strikeouts in 5.1 innings through two appearances. The 24-year-old righty likely won't maintain those ratios -- he had a 4.41 ERA in 85.2 innings with Triple-A Corpus Christi in 2019 -- so it's unlikely he'll make much of a splash in fantasy this season.
Jul 27 2020Bielak (1-0) pitched 3.1 innings Monday, allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits while striking out four to earn the win versus the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak relieved starter Josh James to begin the fourth inning. It was a strong relief outing for the 24-year-old Bielak, who had been called up to the Astros earlier Monday. He figures to remain in a long relief role during 2020, but could be a candidate for a spot start if necessary.
Jul 19 2020Bielak and Framber Valdez are competing for the final spot in the rotation, Alyson Footer of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bielak, who has been used mostly as a starter in the minor leagues, was originally thought of as being a possible bullpen member, but he has become a candidate to replace Jose Urquidy (undisclosed) in the rotation. The 24-year-old Bielak, a righty who has no MLB experience, started Saturday's intrasquad game against Valdez. He allowed four runs on six hits and one walk while striking out three over four innings in a 73-pitch effort.