Yankees Add Veterans on Minor-League Deals as Astros Monitor Market

The New York Yankees have made a pair of low-risk, potentially high-reward signings that could ripple across Major League Baseball — including here in Houston. The club has added two veteran players on minor-league contracts with spring training invitations, according to Heavy Sports. While the moves may seem modest, they often set early benchmarks for the broader free‑agent market, especially for teams like the Houston Astros looking for affordable depth.

The Yankees’ signings reinforce a trend this offseason: contenders seeking experienced players at minimal cost as they shape spring training rosters. The Astros are no exception. Houston’s front office has been clear about the need for pitching depth and positional flexibility after an up-and-down 2024 season. Seeing how other contenders build from the edges may influence how the Astros approach their remaining roster decisions.

Why It Matters for the Astros

The Astros have relied on veteran stability in past seasons, especially when younger talent needed more time to develop. Minor-league deals — which often include chances for major-league call-ups — have been a core part of Houston’s formula for maintaining postseason-caliber depth. As the Yankees set their course, it raises the question of whether the Astros will follow with similar value‑focused additions.

Houston’s bullpen and bench remain areas where experience could make a major difference. The Yankees’ early activity signals that the market for seasoned free agents is picking up. That means the Astros may need to act soon to secure the types of players who can fortify the roster without major financial commitment.

What’s Next

While the names signed by the Yankees may not be headlines on their own, these are the types of moves that often shape the spring competition landscape. For the Astros, the next few weeks will be crucial. Houston fans should expect the front office to be active as minor-league and non-roster opportunities emerge across the league.

This article is a summary of reporting by Heavy Sports. Read the full story here.