Brandon Lyon

Alyson Footer of MLB.com lists Brandon Lyon, David Carpenter and Henry Sosa as possible closing candidates for the Astros.

The ‘Stros need a new stopper now that Mark Melancon is in Boston. Lyon would be the obvious favorite if his recovery from surgery to repair a detached right biceps tendon and a torn labrum goes well, but that’s no safe bet. Carpenter pitched relatively well down the stretch last season, while Sosa has been starting but is probably destined for the bullpen over the long haul. It’s possible hard-throwing Rule 5 pick Rhiner Cruz could eventually get into the mix, but he’s way too raw right now.

Brandon Lyon (biceps) has been stretched out to 90 feet in his throwing program.

Lyon’s season ended in early May after he was shut down and eventually underwent surgery to repair a detached right biceps tendon and a torn labrum. “He’s not reporting any problems,” agent Barry Meister said. “He feels like he’s building arm strength.” The Astros haven’t said whether they expect Lyon to be ready for spring training, but it sounds like he has a shot.

Astros activated RHP Brandon Lyon from the 60-day disabled list.

Lyon posted an ugly 11.48 ERA over 15 appearances before undergoing season-ending surgery in June to repair a detached right biceps tendon and a torn labrum. The Astros still owe him $5.5 million next season.