Astros projected to reunite with former AL MVP over the winter

Jared Bloom

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Astros projected to reunite with former AL MVP over the winter image

Going into the offseason, the Houston Astros must bring in a formidable starter or two. They are at risk of losing their ace, Framber Valdez, on the open market this winter. 

On top of that, that could also use another left-handed bat and potentially some depth in the outfield. However, they do not have much money at their disposal. 

Houston will have to be smart about their approach, targeting players that won't break the bank or sign players on a shorter contract. 

Astros projected to reunite with former AL MVP over the winter

While much of the attention will be on names like Framber Valdez and Dylan Cease, there are plenty more pitchers who could help the Astros move forward. One of these pitchers is Justin Verlander, whom Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter believes would be the perfect option. 

"Adding at least one veteran starter is a must if they have hopes of contending in 2026, and Justin Verlander pitched well enough down the stretch in San Francisco to believe he could still serve as the No. 2 guy."

For starters, Verlander is comfortable in Houston. He had spent seven seasons there, helping them win two World Series titles. And while the former AL MVP is nearing the end of his career, he still has enough left in the tank to serve as one of Houston's top guys. 

Verlander could pair well behind Hunter Brown and could help some of the younger guys get a better feel for competition at the big league level. 

This would not be a move that would be game-changing, but it could be enough for the Astros to dominate the AL West. Plus, there are still tons of Houston fans who would love to see Verlander return, even if it is just for one more year.

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