The Astros did not bring Biggio in simply for nostalgia. Manager Joe Espada cited his left-handed bat, defensive versatility and professional approach.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — For Cavan Biggio, spring training with the Houston Astros feels less like a fresh start and more like a return.
Biggio, who joined the organization just over a week ago, has major league experience with the Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves and Kansas City Royals. But none of those stops carry the personal connection Houston does.
“This organization has always been very special to me, and it’s an absolute honor to don the uniform now,” Biggio said.
The son of Hall of Famer Craig Biggio, Cavan grew up around Astros baseball, following his father through clubhouses and across spring training fields in Kissimmee before the team moved its operations to West Palm Beach.
“First time in West Palm, you know, I grew up running around the fields in Kissimmee with my brother, and those are some of the best memories of my life,” Biggio said.
Astros superfan Donna Hopkins, attending another spring training in West Palm Beach, remembers those days vividly. She recalled seeing a young Biggio signing autographs for fans along the fence line — even when he might not have had permission.
“I was afraid to because your brother was saying Dad is going to get you,” Hopkins said, recounting the moment. “And you said, ‘I got to give the people what they want.’”
Biggio said he doesn’t remember the exchange, but the memory reflects the familiarity he has with the organization.
The Astros did not bring Biggio in simply for nostalgia. Manager Joe Espada cited his left-handed bat, defensive versatility and professional approach as reasons the club sees value in him.
“Lefty bat, can play multiple positions, professional approach from the left side, get on base, he’s got some power, the versatility,” Espada said. “Looking forward to having him here and giving him opportunities to make the club.”
Biggio believes Houston offers his best opportunity to earn a roster spot.
“The interest that they showed in me and obviously they needed a left-handed bat and some versatility, and I thought that I fit in really well with that and it gives me the best opportunity to make this club,” Biggio said. “Obviously, Houston being home is a big plus for that.”
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