Devenski could be used in a hybrid relief role, pitching multiple innings anywhere from the fourth inning on, Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

Ever since last season's playoffs when Indians manager Terry Francona used reliever Andrew Miller in high-leverage situations regardless of the inning, some teams are considering adopting a similar strategy and Houston manager A.J. Hinch thinks Devenski is built for this role. The right-hander was tied for the major league lead with 20 relief appearances of at least two innings last year and led the league with 10 relief outings of three innings, going 2-0 with a 1.01 ERA and a save in those outings. The Astros have stretched out Devenski as a starter this spring, but it looks like his greatest value to the team is in a multi-inning relief role.