The Houston Astros are definitely in need of some pitching depth, and with Framber Valdez pretty much out the door and Ranger Suarez signing with the Boston Red Sox, getting a gem is going to be hard.
Getting a backend starter might be the right idea for them instead. Fansided’s Chris Landers believes that a reunion could be in order, and the Astros go out and sign Houston legend Justin Verlander.
“Granted, 13 starts isn't a ton to go on if you're a team considering investing in the righty this winter. But he'll likely be available on a one-year deal, and he could be a godsend to a team in need of a boost to the back end of its rotation. We know Verlander is comfortable in Houston, and the Astros just so happen to be a team seeking pitching depth on the cheap right now. There figure to be several teams willing to take a flier on him, but the bet here is he sticks with what he knows,” Landers wrote.
This past season, Verlander posted a 4-11 record, a 3.85 ERA, 137 Ks, and a WHIP of 1.362 over 152 innings pitched. However, he did lock in during the second half, where he posted a 2.60 ERA over those starts.
Plus, he would be cheap. He’s projected to receive a one-year, $7.8 million deal, and for a guy who showed he can be elite, that’s a steal. Also, he would be an amazing mentor to Hunter Brown, the young ace of Houston.
Hopefully, the Astros are all over this and bring back their old legend for one last ride.
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