Previewing the Best Candidates to Play 1B For the Houston Astros in 2023

The reigning champion Houston Astros have had a busy start to their offseason, with multiple shake-ups in the front office. General Manager James Click (and his assistant Scott Powers) is gone. Manager Dusty Baker has been re-signed. Owner Jim Crane and his trusted advisors Jeff Bagwell and Reggie Jackson are taking a GM by committee approach, with Bill Firkus operating alongside them until a permanent GM is hired. Crane said such a move could come after the first of the year.

In terms of on-field personnel, all has been mostly quiet. Rafael Montero was re-signed to a three-year deal, but no other notable moves have been made. Much of the game is in a state of limbo until contracts are signed for Justin Verlander and Aaron Judge. At that point, other dominoes will fall.

The Astros had been linked to Anthony Rizzo, but he went back to the Bronx on a two-year deal, meaning Houston still does not have a 1B under contract.

Do they bring back Fab Five member Yuli Gurriel? Or do they look to make a splash in free agency? Could a trade be in store? What is a bigger need on the corner--a big bat in the heart of the order or a solid glove? Climbing Tal's Hill breaks down the top candidates to play 1B next season for the world champs.