Astros Linked to Pitchers, Trade Candidates

After winning the AL West at 81-81 and exiting the 2026 postseason early, the Astros face an offseason focused on improving an inconsistent rotation while filling bullpen depth, with little need for major lineup changes. One suggested target is free-agent starter Michael King, whose strong regular-season and postseason results could add reliability to the staff. Houston could also lose key players: the Rangers have been tipped to pursue reliever Bryan Abreu, while the Cardinals are viewed as a potential trade destination for infielder Isaac Paredes, who has one year of team control remaining. St. Louis could use Paredes at third base as its young roster develops, while Houston’s infield surplus may make a deal plausible. The Astros’ outlook is complicated by substantial commitments to Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa and questions about how much the team can improve, particularly on the mound.