The Houston Astros are back in action, reporting to camp as the countdown to Spring Training begins. And while the familiar faces are returning, it’s the fresh ones-and the potential moves still to come-that are turning heads in Houston.
The Astros have added a few new names to the mix this offseason, including right-hander Tatsuya Imai, pitcher Mike Burrows, and most recently, utility man Joey Loperfido. That last acquisition came via a trade that sent Jesus Sanchez to the Toronto Blue Jays. But according to general manager Dana Brown, the Astros aren’t finished dealing just yet.
“We’re not done yet.”
That was Brown’s message as he addressed the state of Houston’s roster this week. And it wasn’t just a throwaway line. The Astros are actively working the phones, specifically looking to resolve what’s become a clear logjam in the infield.
Let’s break it down: Jeremy Peña has shortstop locked up. Jose Altuve isn’t going anywhere at second base.
Carlos Correa, back in Houston, is set at third. That leaves first base as the only real point of flexibility-and right now, there are two starting-caliber players vying for one spot: Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes.
Walker still brings solid pop to the lineup and can hold his own defensively. But Paredes, coming off an All-Star nod in 2025, has made a strong case to be an everyday starter.
With Yordan Alvarez locked in at designated hitter, there’s simply not enough at-bats to go around. Splitting time between Walker and Paredes might look good on paper, but in practice, it’s a recipe for underutilizing talent.
That’s why the Astros are exploring trade options. They’re looking to turn that surplus into value elsewhere-whether that’s bolstering the bullpen, adding outfield depth, or shoring up the rotation.
It’s a good problem to have, but one that needs solving. The front office knows it, and Brown isn’t shying away from making moves to get this roster aligned before Opening Day.
So while the Astros begin ramping up for another season, don’t expect the front office to sit back and watch. The roster may not be finalized just yet-and if Brown’s comments are any indication, more changes could be on the horizon.
