Brent Strom is returning to the Houston Astros as a pitching consultant for the remainder of the 2026 season, manager Joe Espada announced Tuesday. Per MLB Trade Rumors, Strom is expected to join the team at Citi Field in Queens.

Strom had previously served as the Astros' pitching coach and was closely associated with what became known as the "Astros Lab," the organization's player development approach during its recent competitive run. ESPN reported that Strom is rejoining the team five years after his initial departure. The move comes as the Astros' pitching staff has struggled this season.