Astros Eye Trade Options This Offseason
The Houston Astros find themselves at a crucial crossroads this offseason, having missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016. With general manager Dana Brown facing the tough task of restoring the franchise to its former glory as a perennial contender, the team must evaluate its roster and identify which players may be expendable. The Astros have not reached the American League Championship Series for two consecutive seasons, and changes are on the horizon.
Roster Logjams Prompt Trade Considerations
In the wake of recent acquisitions, particularly the signing of Carlos Correa and the addition of Jesus Sanchez before the trade deadline, the Astros now face significant logjams in both their infield and outfield. With such depth, the team may look to trade from this surplus, not only to create roster space but also to boost their struggling farm system with valuable assets.
Two players who have emerged as clear trade candidates are Jesus Sanchez and Chas McCormick.
Jesus Sanchez’s Value on the Market
When the Astros traded for Sanchez, they hoped he would replicate the success he had with the Miami Marlins, where he posted a league-average OPS+ over six seasons. Unfortunately, Sanchez’s performance with Houston fell short, registering an OPS+ that was a concerning 31 points below the league average of 100. Despite his struggles, Sanchez’s remaining year of team control through 2026 could make him an appealing option for other teams looking for potential.
Insiders suggest that Sanchez could very well be on the trade block this winter, especially given his projected salary increase to $6.5 million next season. The Astros may consider trading him rather than risking a non-tender situation, as they would prefer to receive something in return.
Chas McCormick’s Declining Performance
Sanchez isn’t the only player potentially on the move. Chas McCormick’s situation also raises eyebrows. Over the past two seasons, McCormick has produced a disappointing 63 OPS+ across 158 games with the Astros, which complicates his projected salary of $3.4 million for the upcoming season. While he may not hold the same value as Sanchez, there is speculation that some teams might still be willing to take a chance on him in a trade.
The Astros would ideally look to offload one or both players to avoid non-tendering them, allowing them to recoup some value rather than losing them without compensation. However, Sanchez is likely to attract more interest from potential suitors, given McCormick’s declining production.
As the Astros prepare for what promises to be a pivotal offseason, the futures of Sanchez and McCormick hang in the balance, with both players standing at the edge of a significant career turning point.
