The Astros were able to win the American League West once more in 2024, but they were unable to get past the Wild Card round of the playoffs because they were defeated by the Detroit Tigers. This was a shocking finish to their season.
Despite the fact that Houston suffered a surprising defeat, there was still a possibility that they may possibly compete for a championship in the year 2025.
Nevertheless, the Astros have experienced a few shifts in their situation this winter.
First and foremost, they were aware that bringing back Alex Bregman might possibly be a very expensive endeavor, and there was also the danger that they may end up losing him instead.
Furthermore, the enormous contract that Juan Soto was offered was the factor that may have altered the situation even more than Bregman’s entry into the market as a free agent. In spite of the fact that Soto’s signing with the New York Mets had no direct impact on Houston, it did set the benchmark for the outfield market, which the Astros need to keep an eye on.
Their now-former outfielder, Kyle Tucker, is scheduled to become a free agent in 2025. Given his status as one of the top players in the game, it is possible that he will be offered a contract that is greater than $300 million during the upcoming offseason.
The Houston Rockets, keeping this in mind, came to the conclusion that it would be prudent to move him in order to avoid losing him for no reason.
The Astros obtained a solid package in return from the Chicago Cubs, but Tucker is a huge loss.
Now, with perhaps their greatest player being traded, Houston would be smart to trade their other star free agent for next summer, Framber Valdez.
Seeing the returns and what beginning pitching has cost this winter, Valdez would also bring in a hefty haul. The left-hander had a fantastic 2024 campaign, as the southpaw tallied a 15-7 record, 2.91 ERA, and 1.01 WHIP.
He will be 32 years old next offseason, which is still young enough to acquire a monster contract like some other pitchers have this winter.
Due to the Astros seemingly moving into a bit of a retool at least, their ace would bring them a solid return if they were to move him.
