Houston Astros: An overview of the offseason possibilities

HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 05: Manager AJ Hinch #14 talks with Jeff Luhnow, General Manager of the Houston Astros, prior to game two of the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays at Minute Maid Park on October 05, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

Necessary Creativity:

This brings us to more fantasizing. Let’s talk a little bit about just a few of the creative moves that could make room for Cole to sign a contract with the Astros.

For instance, budget room could be made by dealing Roberto Osuna. And before you bite my head off, hear me out. Moving Osuna may not seem likely, but it could relieve a lot of the PR issues we all witnessed as a result of the Taubman mishap right before the World Series. Plus, Harris and/or Pressly could both make legitimate arguments for becoming our regular closers.

HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 12: Kyle Tucker #3 of the Astros singles against the Yankees during the 3rd inning in Game 1 of the ALCS at Minute Maid Park on October 12, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

Kyle Tucker made quite a case for becoming a permanent addition to the starting lineup. Josh Reddick could prove to be a challenge to move because of what he is owed on this year’s contract and the fact that he becomes a FA after next season. But arguably, this could be a move that would also help to make room for Cole in the budget. Maybe we deal him with Chris Devenski and/or Joe Biagini for some prospects to help rebuild our farm system.

But let’s not forget about Wade Miley. Will he be back? He could be an affordable option. Personally, I think he’s a long shot to return just because of his troubles late into the season. I also think we have other priorities that would make more sense over Miley.

One thing is for sure, our pitching staff looks much different in the 2020 season.

Jeff Luhnow will definitely earn his title and his income this offseason in the creativity it will require for him to figure out ways to spend in order to round out our team coming into the spring. Either way, our farm system was taxed in 2019 and we should look to avoid any major trades or pickups, looking instead to keeping some of the FAs who have proven to become valuable to our culture and our performance.

Are you getting excited yet? Because I, for one, am super excited for news about our acquisitions and moves as this offseason unfolds, and I am hoping beyond hope that we don’t have to wait 45 to 90 days to find out what some of these moves will be.

Go Astros! Let’s #BringitHome in 2020!!!

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