The Houston Astros entered the 2024 postseason as the winners of the American League (AL) West, narrowly clinching the division title in one of the most competitive races in recent memory. With a final regular season record of 88-73, the Astros edged out the Seattle Mariners and Texas Rangers by 3.5 games in a division race that nearly went down to the wire. They were quickly swept in two games by the Detroit Tigers in the Wild Card round.
The Astros’ 2024 season showcased both their strengths and weaknesses. On the pitching side, they boasted a team ERA of 3.75, ranking sixth in Major League Baseball. Framber Valdez and Cristian Javier were key contributors, combining for 18 wins and over 206 strikeouts. Despite the strong starting rotation, the bullpen had moments of inconsistency, especially in high-pressure situations. Josh Hader, their closer, converted 35 of 41 save opportunities but had an ERA of 3.80, leaving room for concern.
Offensively, Houston’s lineup remained dangerous but lacked consistency in critical moments. Yordan Álvarez was the cornerstone of their attack, slashing .308/.392/.567/.959 with 35 home runs and 86 RBIs. However, the supporting cast struggled to maintain the same level of production. Jeremy Peña, their shortstop, committed 19 errors, the most on the team, and his batting average of .266 was well below expectations. The Astros also ranked in the middle of the pack in Batting Average with Runners in Scoring Position, an area that ultimately hurt them in close games.
In response to these shortcomings, the Astros’ front office wasted little time making moves to improve the team for the 2025 season. General Manager Dana Brown signaled a proactive approach to retooling the roster, and since October 30, 2024, Houston has been busy addressing key weaknesses through trades and free-agent signings.
One of the first major moves of the offseason was the acquisition of outfielder Taylor Trammell from the New York Yankees. In exchange, the Astros sent cash considerations to the New York Yankees. Trammell, who only played in ten game last season, brings speed and defensive versatility to Houston’s outfield. Known for his range and ability to make difficult catches, Trammell is expected to play a crucial role in shoring up a defensive unit that was often exposed last season. His presence also provides much-needed left-handed balance to a lineup heavily reliant on right-handed hitters.
The Astros also addressed their catching depth by signing veteran Joe Hudson to a one-year minor league deal. Hudson, a solid defensive catcher with a reputation for working well with young pitchers, adds experience to the roster. While he is not known for his bat—he holds just .222 career batting average—his defensive metrics and ability to call games make him a valuable addition, particularly for a pitching staff with several emerging talents.
Houston’s most notable transaction of the offseason came in the form of a blockbuster trade with the Chicago Cubs. On December 13, the Astros sent star outfielder Kyle Tucker to Chicago in exchange for pitcher Hayden Wesneski, infielder Isaac Paredes, and third base prospect Cam Smith. This move addressed multiple needs for Houston and demonstrated the team’s commitment to both immediate and long-term success.
Wesneski, a 27-year-old right-hander, joins the Astros’ rotation after posting a 3.86 ERA and 67 strikeouts in 67.2 innings with the Cubs last season. His ability to generate swings and misses with a devastating slider should complement Houston’s existing rotation, giving the team another reliable arm for 2025. Meanwhile, Paredes brings defensive versatility and offensive upside to the infield. In 2024, Paredes hit .238 with 19 home runs and 80 RBIs while splitting time between second and third base. His disciplined approach at the plate and ability to drive the ball to all fields make him an intriguing addition to the Astros’ lineup.
Cam Smith, the final piece of the trade, is a 20-year-old third baseman ranked as one of the Cubs’ top prospects. Smith’s power potential and smooth defensive skills have drawn comparisons to former Astros star Alex Bregman. While Smith is still a couple of years away from making an impact at the major league level, his inclusion in the deal reflects Houston’s focus on building a sustainable future.
The Astros’ offseason moves have not been limited to trades and signings; they have also made several adjustments to their coaching staff and player development system. Dana Brown emphasized the importance of modernizing the team’s approach to analytics and scouting. By integrating cutting-edge technology and expanding their international scouting efforts, the Astros aim to maintain their competitive edge in identifying and developing talent.
As Houston prepares for the 2025 season, questions remain about the team’s ability to contend in an increasingly competitive AL West. The Mariners and Rangers are poised to challenge for the division once again, and both teams have made significant improvements during the offseason. To keep pace, the Astros will need their new acquisitions to deliver immediate results while relying on their core players to perform at a high level.
Taylor Trammell’s speed and defensive prowess should address the team’s outfield deficiencies, while Joe Hudson’s experience behind the plate will be invaluable in guiding a young pitching staff. The additions of Hayden Wesneski and Isaac Paredes provide both depth and versatility, addressing two areas that proved problematic in 2024. Meanwhile, the development of Cam Smith and other prospects will be crucial for the Astros’ long-term success.
The 2025 Astros will also look for bounce-back performances from key players who underperformed last season. Jeremy Peña, who dazzled during his rookie campaign but struggled in 2024, will be under pressure to improve both offensively and defensively. Similarly, Ryan Pressly and the bullpen must find greater consistency to avoid the late-game collapses that plagued the team last year.
Here’s the thing folks: Houston’s offseason moves so far reflect a delicate balance between addressing immediate needs and planning for the future. The trades and signings have bolstered the roster, but the front office’s ability to develop and integrate young talent will ultimately determine the team’s success. As the Astros enter spring training, optimism remains high that they can reclaim their status as perennial contenders in the AL.
With that… A retooled roster and renewed focus well-positions the Astros to compete for another AL West title in 2025. There is still more time for them to make some moves setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season, as they seek to erase the disappointment of last year’s early playoff exit.
If you cannot play with them, then root for them!