The Houston Astros won the American League West this season, securing their seventh consecutive MLB postseason berth. Yet, despite this achievement, the season felt disappointing, underscoring the high standards set by the franchise’s culture of success.
After a rough 10-19 start in 2024, Houston found its rhythm, finishing with 88 wins, powered by an outstanding season from Yordan Alvarez and strong performances from three front-line starting pitchers. However, first base remained a persistent issue.
Veteran Jose Abreu began the season at first base, but it quickly became evident that the 37-year-old was struggling. He hit just .099 in April—a shockingly low number for a Major League hitter, especially a first baseman. The Astros gave him a month to work on his mechanics at their training facility and in the minors.
When Abreu returned in May, the results were still disappointing. In his last 13 games with Houston, he hit only .167 with one walk and ten strikeouts. Ultimately, the Astros released him on June 14.
Jon Singleton took over next and provided a slight improvement. However, over 119 games, he batted only .234 and struggled against left-handed pitching, with a .145 average and .457 OPS. With just $800,000 invested in Singleton in 2024 and his arbitration eligibility approaching, Houston is free to pursue a first baseman with stronger hitting potential.
The Astros might consider targeting free agent Pete Alonso, though if that doesn’t pan out, there are still other trade options. However, with the Astros ranked last in MLB’s farm system rankings as of mid-August, pulling off a major trade could prove challenging.
Here’s a trade the Astros could consider to upgrade at first base right away.
The Astros should try to trade for Guardians 1B Josh Naylor
Josh Naylor has one year left under team control before reaching free agency, making him a strong trade candidate for Cleveland, either this offseason or at the trade deadline.
Evaluating his trade value is challenging. In 2024, Naylor made his first All-Star appearance, hitting 31 home runs with a .776 OPS. The prior season, though in fewer games, he performed even better—batting .308 with an .842 OPS over 121 games.
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