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A.J. Blubaugh, a 7th round draft pick in 2022, quietly made a significant leap in 2025. After a solid 2023 and breakout 2024, he started the 2025 season impressively in Triple-A, earning a promotion to Houston. Despite struggles, he rebounded and finished with an impressive 1.69 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 32 innings, showcasing his talent as a starter and reliever.

Josh Reddick, former Houston Astros outfielder, denies using sign-stealing system in 2017 World Series season, attributing his career-best numbers to hitting behind star players. He humorously dismisses rumors about Jose Altuves buzzer, suggesting a terrible chest tattoo was the real reason for his jersey reluctance. Reddick criticizes former teammate Mike Fiers for exposing the scandal, implying jealousy over Justin Verlanders arrival and success, and breaking trust within the baseball community.

Exploring Baseball Catchers Offensive Impact: Beyond Batting Average This episode delves into the world of baseball catchers, focusing on their offensive contributions beyond traditional batting average. We introduce the metric bases per out (BPO), which provides a more comprehensive view of a players offensive impact, especially for positions like catcher where base running isnt always a priority. We discuss the importance of considering BPO alongside the total number of outs a player is responsible for. To facilitate comparisons, we use BPO plus (BPO as a percentage of the league median) and BPOP plus (BPO compared to the median for catchers). We analyze players like Yainer Diaz and Victor Caratini, comparing their BPO to the league and catcher medians. Danny Jansen stands out with a high BPO, making him an intriguing option despite some teammates recent performance decline. Salary predictions are also considered, with Victor Caratini projected at around $2.72 million and Jonah Heim at $6.08 million. The Astros must weigh offensive performance, defensive metrics, and budget when deciding between a starting-quality catcher and a more budget-friendly option.

The Houston Astros have bolstered their pitching staff by acquiring right-handed pitcher Nico Zeglin from the Chicago Cubs. Zeglin, who has impressive minor league stats, could contribute to a rotation that needs growth and more reliable options.

The Houston Astros have quietly acquired pitching prospect Nico Zeglin from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for cash and international bonus pool money. Zeglin, a 25-year-old right-handed pitcher, was injured in 2025 but previously dominated in the Cubs minor league system. The Astros have assigned him to their High-A affiliate, indicating they expect him to be ready to pitch in 2026. The Astros are betting on Zeglins potential, hoping hell become a high-leverage reliever or closer in a few years.

Alimber Santa, a top Astros prospect, makes MLBs Rule Five Draft list; Astros not included in top teams for big trades; Ethan Katz joins Astros, shares reasons for joining; updates on Valdez, Suarez, Tucker, Bregman; Ron Washington joins Giants; Sheffields Hall of Fame journey; Reds re-sign Pagan, Rojas returns to Dodgers.

The Houston Astros are at a crossroads, needing to bolster their pitching rotation and bullpen, and add another power hitter to their lineup during the Winter Meetings. With key players like Jose Altuve, they aim to maintain their competitive edge and avoid a rebuilding phase.

The Houston Astros, once a dominant force in the American League West, are facing a critical off-season. With a record of 91-71 in the 2025 season, theyre grappling with a shrinking lead. The team must decide whether to bolster their roster or risk a decline. Key areas of concern include their pitching rotation, bullpen, and offense. Theyre actively seeking new pitchers and a powerful hitter to strengthen their lineup and reclaim their dominant position in the league.