While a lot hasn't happened yet in free agency, we did learn quite a bit from Astros GM Dana Brown at the GM meetings. In the video below we'll focus on the offense, and later this week we'll drop a video covering the pitching.

Before we get to the players, we found it interesting that Brown met with both hitting coaches after the season, and basically came to the conclusion that the ineffectiveness of the offense falls more on the players than the coaches. Pointing out that the players have had success in the past under the same coaching.

So both Alex Cintron and Troy Snitker appear to be safe heading into the 2025 season. Houston did make a change with their third base coach. Gary Pettis will not be returning, and he'll be replaced by former Diamondbacks third base coach Tony Perezchica.

Perezchica is considered an infield specialist, whom they hope can elevate the play on the infield. One has to wonder if he's been brought in to improve Shay Whitcomb's play at third base, especially if Alex Bregman leaves in free agency.

Outfield outlook

As far as the players are concerned, it looks like we received some answers for the plan in the outfield, if we read between the lines.

Brown believes Chas McCormick has the potential to bounce back after a down season with the bat. He envisions McCormick as the team's starting left fielder.

Based on these comments, we believe the plan is for Chas to start in left field, with Jake Meyers returning to center. Brown's comments also lead us to assume Yordan Alvarez will be in the DH role most of the time. Which makes sense after several injury scares in his career.

However, Dana also said a move at the trade deadline could be a possibility should McCormick continue to struggle in 2025. The club may also use a platoon in the outfield with a left-handed hitter.

Speaking of which, Houston traded for left-handed outfielder Taylor Trammell recently, and he should get some opportunities this spring. But based on his past performance in the big leagues, we're not expecting much.

And considering Brown's comments about top prospect Jacob Melton, we don't anticipate he'll make the team even if he has a good spring.

Finally, Reggie Jackson and the Astros have decided to part ways. Which makes us wonder, does this move mean Brown will have more authority with one less voice in the room?

And could this also signal that Jeff Bagwell's days as an advisor could be numbered?

Don't miss the video above for the full discussion!