After coming within a game of the World Series, the Houston Astros watched a handful of their star players hit free agency. Here’s a couple of names they should target as replacements.
The 2020 version of the Houston Astros limped into the postseason before getting hot and coming within one win of the Fall Classic. The Astros won the World Series in 2017, then lost in seven games during their return trip of 2019.
Several Astros players hit free agency after the season led by George Springer and Michael Brantley. Other contributors from the past also hit the market like Josh Reddick, Brad Peacock, and Chris Devinski.
While the window to produce another championship team may be closing, conceivably it is still open for the upcoming year. By spending their money wisely, the Astros can replace the free agents they are losing with some talented new players.
With $110M tied up in four players, the Astros have become a little top heavy with their contracts. They will need to become thrifty shoppers as they fill out their roster. What’s more, the Astros sit with 38 players on the 40-man roster. Free to sign two players before having to make a move to create room for any other free agents they possibly bring in.
If the Houston Astros enter the year with Martin Maldonado and Garrett Stubbs as their catchers, and a starting rotation of Zack Greinke, Lance McCullers Jr., Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, and Jose Urquidy, they only need a closer, an outfielder, and an additional bullpen piece to round out the roster.
Let’s begin.