Houston Astros: Jake Marisnick could find himself back in town

A once crowded outfield for the Houston Astros has now turned vacant. Jake Marisnick seems like a good fit to return to a team he once called his own.

As free agency 2020 enters its infancy, there has been a lot of talk about the Houston Astros losing three outfielders to the open market. Little talk has been given to who could be brought in to roam the vast pasture of Minute Maid Park. Why not old friend Jake Marisnick?

George Springer is gone. The Astros are not going to pay him the money he’ll command in free agency. Had they wanted to bring him back, they would have negotiated something during the season. Key word there, being negotiated. A lack of interest on management’s part has Springer going elsewhere.

Michael Brantley could be back on a lesser deal. The Astros didn’t extend a qualifying offer, which only means they didn’t want to pay him $19M this year. He could sign a two-year deal for less money per, unless he can get better money elsewhere (which he probably can).

Josh Reddick is gone. He was serviceable during his time in Houston, though the Astros are happy to say, “thanks and best of luck in your future endeavors”, as they don’t mention bringing him back.

Aside from Kyle Tucker, there isn’t a person on the 40-man roster penciled in for the outfield next year. Marisnick is a fan favorite who was lauded for his six years with the organization, before being traded as a victim in the roster crunch prior to last season. He comes relatively cheap and can play all of the outfield positions.

Marisnick has a good combination of power and speed, and may be better known for his glove work in the field than his offensive prowess.

Replacing the offensive production of both Springer and Brantley will be tough. Marisnick can not match their numbers. What he can do is provide quality defense at any spot in the outfield and bring energy to the ballpark every night.

I’m not saying the Houston Astros need to sign him and give him a starting job. If Marisnick is available after the calendar turns to 2021 they should inquire on his services though, as a fourth outfielder. He brings more to the table than his lifetime .229 batting average would suggest.