This story was excerpted from Brian McTaggart’s Astros Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to receive it regularly in your inbox.
HOUSTON – For the first time since 2016, the Astros did not extend their playoff run into October. Their streak of seven consecutive appearances in the American League Championship Series ended abruptly with a sweep by the Tigers in the AL Wild Card Series, leading to an offseason filled with intriguing questions regarding the team’s immediate future.
Here are five key questions confronting the Astros this offseason:
1. Will they retain Bregman?
Bregman enters free agency as one of the top players on the market. He expresses a desire to stay in Houston but is expected to attract interest from multiple teams after a season where he recorded a .260/.315/.453 slash line with 26 home runs and 75 RBIs while showcasing Gold Glove-caliber defense at third base.
2. Who will play first base?
As the Astros head into 2024, they had hoped José Abreu would carry momentum from his strong finish in 2023 into a rebound season; however, this did not materialize. The club released the 37-year-old veteran in June during the second year of his three-year, $58.5 million contract after he registered a .362 OPS in 35 games. Jon Singleton took most of the starts at first base and recorded a respectable 103 OPS+, with catchers Diaz and Victor Caratini also seeing time at the position.
The team finished tied for 26th out of 30 teams with a .651 OPS at first base this season, indicating a pressing need to enhance the offensive output at that position. Some potential free agents include Paul Goldschmidt, Pete Alonso, Josh Bell, Rowdy Tellez, Christian Walker, Ryan O’Hearn, and Carlos Santana.
3. What are the plans for center field?
Jake Meyers achieved a career-high 148 games in 2024, starting 126 of those in center field, while recording a .646 OPS. Unfortunately, the Astros ranked 26th in the league with an OPS of .634 at that position. Both Meyers and Chas McCormick, who struggled offensively, might be non-tender candidates; nevertheless, it’s likely Houston will retain at least one of them while seeking additional talent to fill the role next season.
4. Which starting pitchers will be ready for the 2025 season?
The Astros concluded the season with a rotation that included Framber Valdez, Hunter Brown, Yusei Kikuchi, Ronel Blanco, and Spencer Arrighetti. Valdez, Brown, Blanco, and Arrighetti are expected to return, forming a solid core heading into 2025. Luis Garcia (recovering from Tommy John surgery) and potentially Lance McCullers Jr. (right forearm surgery) could be available by Opening Day, while Cristian Javier and José Urquidy, both of whom underwent Tommy John surgery in June, are projected to return by mid-summer. The team might explore adding another veteran pitcher to contribute innings.
5. Should they re-sign Kikuchi or Verlander?
Kikuchi thrived after his trade to the Astros from the Blue Jays, finishing with a 5-1 record and a 2.70 ERA, notching 76 strikeouts over 60 innings in 10 starts as the Astros adjusted his pitching style. It’s likely that Houston will consider re-signing the 33-year-old southpaw, as he has adjusted well to the team’s needs.
Conversely, Verlander spent a significant portion of the season on the injured list and struggled in his final outings of the regular season, posting an 8.10 ERA over his last 33 1/3 innings. This raises uncertainties about his future as he approaches his age-42 season. Although Verlander expressed confidence in his ability to contribute more on the mound, a return to Houston seems improbable due to the depth in the current pitching roster.
# Offseason Dilemmas: Five Key Questions Facing the Astros after Early Playoff Exit
The Houston Astros, a team synonymous with success over the past few years, faced an unexpected early playoff exit this season. As they head into the offseason, several crucial dilemmas await the franchise. Below are five key questions that the Astros will need to address to remain competitive in the coming years.
## 1. What Will Happen to the Pitching Rotation?
The Astros’ pitching rotation has been a significant factor in their recent successes. However, after the early playoff exit, questions loom regarding the future of several key pitchers.
### Potential Free Agents
– **Framber Valdez**: Emerging as a strong ace, will the Astros extend him or risk losing him to free agency?
– **Cristian Javier**: Another young star whose performance needs to be assessed, especially after a rocky postseason.
– **Justin Verlander**: If he returns, will he still be the same dominant force, or is it time to plan for life after Verlander?
### Key Considerations
– **Injury Management**: How will the team manage the health of their pitchers?
– **Development of Young Talent**: Which prospects are ready to step up?
## 2. How Will Free Agency Impact the Roster?
Free agency is always a double-edged sword. The Astros will need to navigate the complexities of acquiring new talent while retaining their core players.
### Key Free Agents to Consider
| Player Name | Position | Current Status |
|——————-|—————-|———————|
| José Abreu | First Base | Free Agent |
| Michael Brantley | Outfielder | Free Agent |
| Rafael Montero | Relief Pitcher | Free Agent |
### Strategy for Free Agency
– **Targeting Needs**: The Astros need to prioritize positions showing weaknesses during the postseason. A powerful right-handed bat or a reliable bullpen arm could be critical.
– **Finding Bargain Deals**: Can the team uncover hidden gems in the free-agent market?
## 3. Should the Front Office Consider a Rebuild or Reload?
With several aging players and young talents on the cusp of breaking through, the decision between a rebuild or reload is crucial this offseason.
### Indicators for a Reload
- **Strong Core**: Retaining players like Yordan Alvarez and Kyle Tucker, who are in their prime.
– **Minor League Prospects**: Potential stars like Hunter Brown and Pedro Leon could ease the transition.
### Considerations for a Rebuild
– **Aging Stars**: With players like Verlander and Altuve nearing the end of their careers, is it wise to begin transitioning away?
– **Long-term Goals**: The Astros must weigh their immediate needs against long-term sustainability.
## 4. How Will the Team Address Offensive Struggles?
Despite their strong lineup, the Astros displayed offensive inconsistencies during the playoffs, raising questions about their approach.
### Key Areas for Improvement
– **Contact Hitting**: Increasing the overall batting average, particularly in high-leverage situations.
– **Power Hitting**: Ensuring that they maintain their reputation for home runs, particularly in critical playoff moments.
### Practical Tips for Improvement
– **Focus on Plate Discipline**: Encouraging hitters to be more selective, particularly on off-speed pitches.
– **Studying Pitching Trends**: Analyzing pitcher tendencies to prepare hitters better.
### Player Development
– **Personalized Coaching**: Provide tailored hitting plans for each player based on their strengths and weaknesses.
## 5. What Will Be the Future of Management and Coaching Staff?
A key to success in baseball lies in strong leadership. With the Astros facing early playoff disappointment, questions arise regarding management and coaching strategies.
### Evaluating the Current Staff
– **Dusty Baker**: Will the veteran manager return, or will the Astros seek a new direction?
– **Coaching Adjustments**: Are there areas where the coaching staff can improve, particularly in-game management?
### Potential Changes in Management
– **Identifying New Talent**: Could the Astros pursue a fresh voice in the clubhouse?
– **Long-Term Commitment**: Building a cohesive strategy that aligns with the team’s vision for the future.
## Additional Considerations for the Offseason
### Balancing Veteran Presence and Youth
The Astros must find a way to balance retaining veteran players while also integrating young talent into the lineup. This can create a dynamic mix of experience and energy.
### Enhancing Fan Engagement
A strong fan base is crucial for any MLB team. The Astros should consider initiatives to engage fans during the offseason, such as:
– **Community Events**: Hosting meet-and-greets with players and coaches.
– **Interactive Social Media Campaigns**: Utilizing platforms like Instagram and Twitter to keep fans involved.
### Leveraging Data and Analytics
The use of analytics has transformed how teams approach the game. The Astros must continue to invest in data-driven strategies to evaluate player performance and game strategy. This includes:
– **Advanced Scouting Reports**: Utilizing technology to assess opponents more effectively.
- **In-Depth Player Analysis**: Continually refining player development through analytics.
## Conclusion
The offseason presents the Houston Astros with several critical questions that will determine the franchise’s future. By addressing their pitching rotation, navigating free agency, deciding between rebuilding or reloading, improving offensive performance, and evaluating management, the Astros can set themselves up for success in the coming seasons. As they tackle these offseason dilemmas, the focus will remain on maintaining their competitive edge and striving for another championship title.
