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MLB Free Agency: Biggest Winners of the Offseason So Far

By Matt Meffe

May 14, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; A general view of a glove and Boston Red Sox hat in the dugout prior to a game between the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
May 14, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; A general view of a glove and Boston Red Sox hat in the dugout prior to a game between the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Houston Astros

In 2015, the Houston Astros finally ended their rebuild by breaking out as a threat in the AL West. Their success that season led them to the playoffs as one of the AL Wild Card teams. After shutting out the Yankees in the Wild Card Game, the Astros fell to the Royals in the ALDS despite having a 2-1 series lead. In 2016, the Astros had another successful run, but failed to reach the postseason. The Astros needed to improve in the offseason to attempt to overtake the Rangers in 2017, and they have done just that.

First, Houston acquired catcher Brian McCann from the Yankees following the loss of Jason Castro to free agency. The Astros followed up a few short days later by signing outfielder Josh Reddick to a four-year deal. Finally, the Astros added some more veteran presence by signing former Astro Carlos Beltran to a one-year deal. These moves will definitely be able to help the young, up-and-coming Astros, while providing lineup depth and a power threat. If the Astros can get their pitching staff in order, these moves will balance the team out and make them one to watch in 2017.

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