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Astros Morning Snippets: Pitchers and catchers report today!

By Cody Poage

WEST PALM BEACH, FL - MARCH 09: Justin Verlander #35 of the Houston Astros delivers a pitch during the first inning of a spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals at FITTEAM Ball Park of the Palm Beaches on March 9, 2018 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
WEST PALM BEACH, FL - MARCH 09: Justin Verlander #35 of the Houston Astros delivers a pitch during the first inning of a spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals at FITTEAM Ball Park of the Palm Beaches on March 9, 2018 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /
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The latest news around the Astros and baseball on February 13th, including a reminder that pitchers and catchers report today for Houston.

Obvious news of the day: Pitchers and catchers report

Honestly, I do not need to go into much explanation on this one.

Who’ll compete for the fifth starting role? 

Our own Brian Murray breaks down here who’ll compete for the fifth and final spot in the Astros‘ starting rotation. Without giving too much away (hey, page clicks), everyone is expecting to see which of the club’s young arms will push for the job. Also, don’t forget about veteran right-hander Brad Peacock.

Awaiting the outcome of Gerrit Cole‘s arbitration hearing

The Astros and Gerrit Cole anticipated arbitration hearing took place on Monday, February 11th, and we are still awaiting the results. Cole was seeking $13.5 million for his final season before free agency while Houston countered with $11.425 million. Based on Cole’s metrics from last season (2.88 ERA, 2.70 FIP in 200 1/3 IP), I would be surprised if the right-hander doesn’t win his case.

Could there still be a push for Edwin Encarnacion? 

At this point, it seems like the Astros are fine with Yuli Gurriel and Tyler White as their primary first base/DH combination. But Edwin Encarnacion is still a potential trade candidate, albeit in a slow market, as the Mariners are rebuilding in 2019. While there doesn’t appear to be any substantive trade talks/rumors in recent weeks, the fit remains obvious, especially if Gurriel or White get off to a slow start this season. After all, it shouldn’t take much to pry away Encarnacion from Seattle.

FanGraphs’ Top 100 Prospects in 2019

Eric Longenhagen and Kiley McDaniel of FanGraphs released their top 100 (and then some) prospects list for 2019, and the Astros are represented well in the duo’s work.

Next. Astros: The DH isn’t pure evil, after all. dark

Thankfully for everyone, we are now one day closer to actual baseball being played.

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