Qualls is expected to face competition from Luke Gregerson and Pat Neshek for the Astros' closer role in spring training. Qualls was impressive for Houston last season, posting 19 saves with a 3.33 ERA and 43:5 K:BB ratio in 51.1 innings, but Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow signed Gregerson and Neshek via free agency this offseason to give the team several experienced options for the ninth inning role. Manager A.J. Hinch has an idea of who he'd like to use in the ninth inning, but he cautioned that the decision isn't final and would be contingent on spring performance.