IMAGE: Houston Astros manager Joe Espada talks before the game against the New York Mets at Daikin Park. / Troy Taormina / Imagn Images
The Houston Astros have been quiet this offseason-maybe too quiet. With Framber Valdez potentially on his way out, the team is facing some real questions about its roster construction heading into 2026.

Losing Valdez would be a significant blow to the rotation, no doubt. But the Astros’ needs go beyond just replacing an ace.

One area that could use a closer look? Catcher-specifically, the backup spot.

According to recent reports, Houston may be eyeing a move to shore up its depth behind the plate, and a familiar name has surfaced: Jonah Heim. The former Rangers catcher isn’t just a recognizable face from across the state-he’s a former World Series champion and an All-Star who’s proven he can handle the grind of a full season behind the dish.

Let’s be clear: Heim isn’t coming off his best year. His 2025 campaign was rough at the plate, finishing with a 77 OPS+, which is well below league average.

But what makes Heim intriguing isn’t just his offensive upside-it’s his ability to manage a pitching staff. Even when the bat goes cold, Heim brings value with his glove and game-calling, and for a team like Houston that’s trying to stabilize its rotation, that kind of presence behind the plate can’t be overlooked.

Assuming the Astros are comfortable with their current outfield mix-Jesús Sánchez, Jake Meyers, Cam Smith, and Zach Cole-and that they’re rolling with internal options for the back end of the rotation (names like Mike Burrows, Ryan Weiss, Lance McCullers Jr., Jason Alexander, Nate Pearson, and Spencer Arrighetti are in the mix), then backup catcher might be the last real item on their offseason checklist.

A reunion with Victor Caratini is still on the table, and Reese McGuire is another name that’s been floated. But Heim offers a little more ceiling-especially if he can bounce back offensively.

In 2023, he didn’t just make the All-Star team; he also took home a Gold Glove. That version of Heim could be a game-changer for Houston, especially with a staff that might be in flux if Valdez departs.

The Astros have long been a team that values defensive stability behind the plate, and Heim fits that mold. He’s not the splashiest name out there, but he’s a guy who’s been through the fire, called big games, and caught elite arms. If Houston wants a steady hand to help guide a potentially young or reshuffled rotation, Heim makes a lot of sense.

The big question now is whether the Astros plan to make any moves at all. Standing pat while other AL contenders reload could be risky.

But if they’re going to make a move, adding a catcher who can bring leadership, defense, and maybe even a little bounce-back potential at the plate would be a smart, targeted play. Keep an eye on this one.