The Houston Astros enter the offseason coming off the official end of their run of dominance over the American League, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016 at the end of a frustrating campaign.
Suffering endless injuries, dreadful luck, stretches of freezing cold play and everything in between, the 2025 season for Houston was one long, endless source of frustration. Now, the focus in the winter time becomes preventing it from happening again.
Needless to say, improved depth is needed along with internal improvement and guys producing at a higher rate. But the biggest spotlight will of course be on outside additions. If the Astros are going to make a major splash in free agency, there’s reason to think it should be on the pitching staff.
Should high-upside depth be what they’re seeking, a reunion with one of their franchise legends could make the most sense. After an elite second half of the season with the San Francisco Giants, future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander hits the open market again. If Houston wants to bring him back, he might just be a phone call away.
Astros Can Get Justin Verlander Back Should They Desire Him