Three potential offseason targets for the Houston Astros

Because the Astros head to the postseason as soon as once more, there aren’t many evident holes within the Houston lineup for those who look past first base. The manufacturing the crew has acquired there, led by José Abreu, ranks within the backside 5 within the league, however that is hardly the place they will possible prioritize this offseason. 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr., LF/IF, Arizona Diamondbacks

The Astros lineup has helped carry them this 12 months. Alex Bregman has produced one other strong season at third base, whereas Kyle Tucker has emerged as the most effective proper fielders in baseball. The pair each rank within the high three at their respective positions when it comes to WAR on the season. Houston will wish to get them assist within the lineup. 

There is definitely some familiarity right here with Gurriel Jr., whose brother held down first base for the Astros for seven seasons. The youthful Gurriel spent many of the 12 months enjoying left area for the D’backs after coming over in a commerce final winter. Over his six-year profession he is a .279/.325/.468 hitter who made his first All-Star look this previous season. 

Wandy Peralta, LHP, New York Yankees

Left-handed relievers that may be counted on are a priceless commodity, and there are solely a handful who might be on the free-agent market this offseason. It is one piece of the Houston bullpen that does not stand out. 

Peralta has been an vital piece of the Yankees bullpen because the membership acquired him in 2021. He is been utilized in a number of roles and even served because the membership’s nearer in the course of the postseason in 2022. He is well-liked within the New York clubhouse and there are these inside the group who hope to re-sign him, however the market may dictate in any other case. 

Shota Imanaga, LHP, Yokohama DeNA BayStars (NPB)

It is a little bit of a wild card, significantly as a result of the Astros beginning rotation is a power. Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, and Justin Verlander are a formidable entrance three. J.P. France emerged as an actual possibility and Hunter Brown had a strong season. Plus, in some unspecified time in the future subsequent season the membership ought to see Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr. again from damage. 

Imanaga is anticipated to be posted by the BayStars this offseason and he could possibly be the most effective arms out there on the open market. The left-hander has a 2.57 ERA and 0.986 WHIP on the season in Japan’s highest league. He started the 12 months serving to anchor the Japan World Baseball Traditional roster, beginning their gold medal-winning sport. Including him to the Houston rotation would make them much more formidable.