Astros Rumors: Alex Colome a strong fit for Houston’s bullpen?

The Houston Astros are looking to upgrade their bullpen in a big way, and are showing interest in another top free-agent reliever.

The Houston Astros are interested in free-agent reliever Alex Colome, a source told FanSided’s Robert Murray. Among the other teams interested include the Boston Red Sox, Washington Nationals and Minnesota Twins.

The Chicago White Sox have stayed in touch with Colome, but are also in on other relievers such as Liam Hendriks. No deal is believed to be imminent for Colome, who is among the top relief pitchers on the market.

The fit between the Astros and Colome is obvious. Houston is actively searching for a late inning arm to replace Roberto Osuna and considering the type of relievers they’re pursuing, it is clear that general manager James Click is looking to spend top dollar to have a dependable option closing out games.

The most likely option for the Astros, however, is signing Colome over Hendriks. The team is attempting to replace their entire starting outfield in 2021, and has identified Jackie Bradley Jr. and Michael Brantley as targets. Both players will command contracts over $10 million per season and it is unlikely they will have the money to sign two, if not three players, to such deals.

Which is why Colome, who might land a multi-year deal worth less than $10 million annually, is a strong fit. While he may not be the same caliber of reliever as Hendriks, he is very good. Colome, 32, finished this season with a 0.81 ERA in 22.1 innings, allowing only 13 hits and converting 12 of 13 save opportunities.

Colome is not close to signing, and it is probable that he does not sign until Hendriks is off the board. But the Astros’ bullpen targets this winter are revealing and ahold that they are willing to spend to turn a clear need into a strength.

Now, it is up to Click go get the deal done.