Houston Astros Set Their Priorities Ahead of MLB Winter Meetings

The Houston Astros head into the MLB Winter Meetings with several major roster questions and a clear need to strengthen the club after a demanding 2024 campaign. As the front office prepares for a crucial week of negotiations, fans across Houston are watching closely for signs of how the team plans to remain competitive in a tightening American League race.

Astros Enter Winter Meetings With Clear Needs

The Astros are expected to focus on pitching, both in the rotation and the bullpen. After dealing with injuries and inconsistency last season, the club needs reliable arms to support a core roster that still carries championship expectations. Team officials have noted that they want depth rather than a single splashy addition, though the market may dictate a shift in approach.

Houston may also explore outfield help. While the lineup remains strong, a right-handed bat with defensive flexibility could provide insurance and balance. Several free agents fit that profile, and trade options remain open.

The front office also enters the week with contractual considerations. Arbitration decisions and long-term extensions for select young players could influence how aggressively the Astros pursue external additions.

Roster Decisions That Could Shape the Offseason

Pitching will drive much of the Astros' strategy. Veteran departures have created openings in both the rotation and the late-inning bullpen mix. The club may look for pitchers who offer durability, as last season exposed the strain of relying heavily on younger or recently injured arms.

Because payroll flexibility is more limited than in past years, the Astros may prioritize value signings or trades that move salary. However, general manager Dana Brown has signaled that the team will pursue upgrades that align with long-term planning rather than short-term patches.

Key storylines to watch include:

• Whether Houston adds a mid-rotation starter.
• How aggressively the team pursues bullpen upgrades.
• Potential moves involving depth players to create roster space.
• Efforts to secure multi-year stability for emerging young talent.

Why It Matters for the Houston Astros

The Astros remain in a competitive window, but the margin for error has narrowed. As rival teams across the American League make major upgrades, Houston must keep pace to stay within postseason reach.

The Winter Meetings offer an opportunity to build the foundation for a deeper and more balanced roster. Strong decisions this week could stabilize the pitching staff and ease pressure on the club's veteran hitters.

What’s Next

Once the Winter Meetings conclude, the Astros will likely shift toward targeted signings and possible trades. Fans should expect more clarity on payroll limits and roster priorities as negotiations unfold.

If Houston can exit the meetings with at least one reliable pitcher and a clearer path toward completing the roster, the offseason will be off to a positive start.

This article is a summary of reporting by MLB.com. Read the full story here.