How Astros GM's latest comments hold major clues for on/off field decisions next season
FRONT OFFICE SHAKEUP
11 November 2024
The roster is coming into focus! Composite Getty Image.
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!
For Astros’ conversation, catch Brandon Strange, Josh Jordan, and Charlie Pallilo on our Stone Cold 'Stros podcasts!Episodes drop on Mondays and bonus episodes are released on Wednesdays when the news cycle dictates._______________
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What battles Houston Texans must win to shock the world, derail Chiefs dynasty
Jan 16, 2025, 3:49 pm
Make no mistake about it, the Texans have their biggest challenge of the season this Saturday in KC, trying to keep the Chiefs from moving on and possibly winning their third straight championship.
And the level of difficulty goes much further than just a fierce opponent. The Chiefs are fully rested, and the Texans will be short-handed again on offense.
After releasing disgruntled receiver Diontae Johnson and tight end Cade Stover heading to IR, Houston will need someone outside of Nico Collins to make an impact in the passing game. Joe Mixon is a prime candidate to catch some passes this week, but he missed practice on Thursday (ankle) so that will be something to watch.
Not to mention, Robert Woods has missed practice time this week with a hip injury. Which means outside of Collins, the Texans will have to lean on John Metchie III, Dalton Schultz, and Xavier Hutchinson to move the ball through the air.
As opposed to the Chiefs who have a full complement of weapons with Travis Kelce, Hollywood Brown, DeAndre Hopkins, and burner Xavier Worthy, with Patrick Mahomes pulling the trigger. Oh yeah, they also have Andy Reid calling the plays.
It certainly appears the Chiefs have the edge of offense, but the Texans defense has gotten healthy at the right time. Especially on the defensive line that gave Justin Herbert fits in the Wild Card round.
X-factors
Tank Dell was Stroud's most effective target against the Chiefs in December, recording over 100 yards and scoring a touchdown. Collins was held to just 60 yards on 7 catches. If that happens this time around, that could spell trouble for Houston. Metchie is now the Texans No. 2 receiver because of injuries, and he got off to a terrible start last week, fumbling on the first offensive play of the game. He's done a decent job of getting open this year, but he's struggled to hold on to the football. The moment can't get too big for him this week. Also, Texans OC Bobby Slowik has to do a better job of calling plays that will keep the team out of third and long situations. Something that has plagued the team all season.
On defense, limiting Mahomes' ability to create big plays with his legs will be key. He escaped through the B gap several times in his last matchup with DeMeco Ryans' defense. Those runs led to first downs and KC's first touchdown of the game.
What does Vegas think?
The Chiefs are favored by 9, and the total is set at 41.5 points.
We have so much more to get to! Be sure to watch the video above for our in-depth preview and predictions for the big game.
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