The Houston Astros come into the offseason with a few holes. They could use another left-handed bat, need to figure out who will be playing second base in 2026, and need bullpen help, but their focus will be on acquiring a starting pitcher.
They are at risk of losing their ace, Framber Valdez, as he headlines the free agent pitching group. They cannot go into the new season comfortably with Hunter Brown leading the way.
Luckily for them, there are quite a few frontline starters who are looking for a new opportunity. Among this group sit players like Ranger Suarez, Nick Martinez, Michael King, and Chris Bassitt.
Astros linked to former All-Star arm to help bolster the rotation
While all the names listed above could be great additions to the rotation, The Athletic's Jim Bowden points out that Zac Gallen is a name that fans will want to watch out for.
"A change of scenery probably makes sense for him at this point, with the Astros, Tigers, Orioles, Braves, Mets, and Cubs all possibilities if he doesn't return to Arizona."
Houston is not the only team listed here. Bowden also mentions the Detroit Tigers, Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, and Chicago Cubs as potential suitors.
The former All-Star would have attracted a bigger market if it weren't for a rough 2025 season. He started 33 games, compiling a 13-15 record with a 4.83 ERA across 192 innings of work.
Part of his struggles were due to the command of his fastball, and his curveball was not as effective as it had been in the past. However, he did have a strong finish to the season in September, which is a good sign for teams interested in signing him to a contract this winter.
More MLB news:
- ESPN insider lists Astros slugger as potential trade chip this offseason
- ESPN insider adds to Astros outfielder's rampant trade rumors
- Tigers looking to re-sign former All-Star reliever, feeling is mutual
- Astros' projected Opening Day lineup following Mauricio Dubon trade
- Tigers' projected Opening Day lineup looks like a 2025 rerun