Houston Astros: Four things that need to sit atop the offseason priority list

5 of 5

HOUSTON, TX – OCTOBER 17: PBO/GM Jeff Luhnow (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

At least seven spots available, who’s taking them?

The Houston Astros have at least six spots available on their 25-man roster and seven on their 40-man. Both of those numbers will likely increase by at least one when the team inevitably declines McCann’s $15 million option.

I’ve previously broken down five blockbuster options for the team to consider in free agency. While getting all of these guys would be great, it’s not very likely. Netting a couple of them could be possible but all of these guys will likely be targeted by multiple teams.

The Astros have a few holes that need to be filled, both according to need and vacancy. Up to three starting rotation spots could be up for grabs with the potential departures of Keuchel and Morton along with LMJ potentially be on the shelf all year. James, Valdez are options, Collin McHugh could step back into the rotation, Whitley could be called up, and of course free agent and trade options.

More from House of Houston

The next biggest vacant spot is the catcher position. Last year, the Astros relied upon Max Stassi in addition to partial seasons from McCann and Maldonado. Stassi had a great start but tailed off and failed to gain the trust of the pitching staff. As evidenced by the ALCS, the Astros need a catcher that is reliable behind the plate and one who can hit is a bonus. Flipping Tucker for JT Realmuto is the best option but an unlikely one.

Then there is the question of the outfield with MarGo’s potential departure. There are plenty of options to replace him including internal ones like Tucker and Tony Kemp. The bullpen is also bound to have at least one hole, potentially more if McHugh is moved back to the rotation.

There are a lot of moving pieces that will go into figuring out this roster. Luhnow has his work cut out for him to fit it all together, whether it via promotion, free agency, or the trade block. Regardless, it’ll be hard to match last year’s roster but if anyone can figure it out, it’s Luhnow.

Next. 5 bold, blockbusting free agency moves. dark

Broad as they may, these four things will be the foundation of 2019 season that will hopefully lead to a World Series run. There will be plenty to pay attention to in coming months as this roster is pieced together.

Home/Houston Astros