The Houston Astros will look to the offseason to make some upgrades after missing the postseason. This is the first time since the 2016 season that they did not play meaningful October baseball.
Injuries played a big part in their tough season, with Yordan Alvarez missing much of the year with a fractured right hand and then later a sprained right ankle. They were also without Josh Hader toward the end of the year as he was dealing with a left shoulder capsule sprain.
Houston will look to get and stay healthy next season and fill some holes with some players expected to leave in free agency, like Framber Valdez and Victor Caratini. They will also keep their eye out for any upgrades they can make to help them be a better club in 2026.
Braves' star could be a great option for the Astros if he's made available
Second base has been a question mark for Houston, with the club transitioning Jose Altuve to the outfield. With this in mind, they could turn to acquire a solid second baseman this winter, and Sports Illustrated's Brooks Crew points to Ozzie Albies as being a potential fit.
"Albies could be the man to help the Astros take the position fully off Altuve's hands, and would be a reliable daily starter for a team that has struggled defensively despite boasting a powerful offense."
Albies is currently under contract with the Atlanta Braves, but he does have a club option for next season. If Atlanta were to decline that option, he could be a great acquisition for the Astros. He would be a sure-fire second baseman who would allow Altuve to solely focus on his outfield transition.
More Astros news:
- Astros could be reasonable landing spot for Yankees' 34 home run slugger
- Astros predicted to target $13.5 million All-Star to replace Framber Valdez if he walks in free agency
- Astros dismiss head athletic trainer after year of injury woes
- Insider reveals the Astros will be in the market for a reliever this winter
- Insider questions how the Astros will solve their infield logjam