How growing skepticism of Houston Astros front office is only part of the story
FOOL ME ONCE...
06 August 2024
The Astros need Kyle Tucker more than ever.Composite Getty Image.
As the Astros approach the home stretch of the season, it's become clear that they really miss the pop that Kyle Tucker provides in the middle of the lineup.
They were able to get by without Tucker for a while, but now the offense is really feeling his loss. Especially when it comes to power numbers.
And while fans certainly miss Tucker's contributions on the field, what's going on behind the scenes really has people perplexed.
Why is a bone bruise taking so long to heal? Tucker has been out since injuring his leg on June 3, and the club can't share a date we should expect him to return. SportsMap's Charlie Pallilo posted this on X two days ago.
Kyle Tucker started his third month out Sunday and is nowhere close to returning.
Who believes Tucker had or has a leg fracture and the Astros misdiagnosed it and/or failed the forthcoming-ness test?
— Charlie Pallilo (@Pallilo) August 4, 2024
Deep bone bruises can keep players sidelined for significant periods of time, especially when swelling occurs around the knee. But the Astros' reputation for not being forthcoming with injury details have some fans and media rightfully skeptical.
Case in point. How long did it take for the organization to admit Justin Verlander needed Tommy John surgery a few years back?
Being upfront about injuries is only part of it
The Jose Abreu saga is a perfect example. Anyone with eyes could see that Abreu just couldn't cut it anymore in the big leagues. Yet, Jeff Bagwell and Joe Espada were telling us how much better he looked at the Florida Complex League and spreading the “back of the baseball card” nonsense that upset the entire fanbase.
The point being, if they misrepresented the Abreu situation in some people's eyes, why would things be any different with Tucker?
Personally, I think Tucker's extended absence is just bad luck. But it's hard to give them the benefit of the doubt when every injury update seemingly involves some type of “discomfort.”
Looking ahead
At this point, whether his injury was misdiagnosed or the club kept quiet about the severity of the injury really doesn't matter. We'll probably never know the full story, and the most important thing is Tucker returns to the team ASAP and fully healthy.
Blame Game
Who deserves the heat for the team's approach to free agency before the season?
Have the Astros learned from their mistakes (Abreu, Rafael Montero) while operating without a GM?
And do they already regret the Josh Hader contract?
This is one video you don't want to miss as we try to get to the bottom of the Tucker situation, examine who's the final decision maker in the club's front office, and so much more!
Catch our weekly Stone Cold ‘Stros podcast. Brandon Strange, Josh Jordan, and Charlie Pallilo discuss varied Astros topics. The first post for the week generally goes up Monday afternoon (second part released Tuesday) via The SportsMap HOU YouTube channel or listen to episodes in their entirety at Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
How Houston Texans' defense now measures up to other NFL powerhouses
Mar 14, 2025, 2:22 pm
The Houston Texans have been aggressive this offseason, making key moves to solidify their defense and reshape their offensive line. Head coach DeMeco Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio clearly have a vision for a tougher, more disciplined team in 2025.
A defense no one wants to face
The Texans' defense is shaping up to be one of the most formidable units in the NFL. Adding safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson was a home run move, as he brings versatility and playmaking ability to the secondary. Houston swapped out Kenyon Green in the trade, improving their defensive backfield while addressing a need. With Gardner-Johnson in the mix, the Texans should have a much better chance of containing elite tight ends like Travis Kelce and Mark Andrews—something that has plagued AFC defenses for years. There's no doubt that Jimmy Ward's injury history had to be an important factor in trading for Gardner-Johnson.
The front seven is stacked. Will Anderson Jr. is poised to take a leap, and he’s still joined by Danielle Hunter and Denico Autry, giving Houston one of the best pass-rushing trios in the league. On the interior, Sheldon Rankins, Mario Edwards Jr., and Tim Settle provide a strong presence. Pass rusher Darrell Taylor and DT Kurt Hinish add even more depth, ensuring a relentless defensive attack.
The secondary, already impressive, looks elite with Derek Stingley Jr. leading the way. If the unit stays healthy, no offense will want to deal with Houston’s defense in 2025. They are built to dominate.
Fixing the offense starts up front
The Texans offensive line struggles in 2024 weren’t just a lazy narrative—they were real. Houston made significant changes, parting ways with three starting linemen from last season. The move wasn’t just about talent, but also coaching, as the offensive coordinator and offensive line coach were also replaced. Clearly, the Texans believed the entire operation needed a reset.
One bright spot on the line is new addition Laken Tomlinson. The veteran guard has been incredibly durable, starting at least 16 games in seven straight seasons. He made the Pro Bowl in 2021 while playing for the 49ers, where DeMeco Ryans got to see his work ethic up close. His presence should help stabilize an offensive front that desperately needed reinforcements. On Friday, the Texans added more depth on the interior, trading a 2026 6th-round pick for Vikings guard Ed Ingram.
The biggest move on offense was the decision to trade Laremy Tunsil. It wasn’t just about his inconsistent run blocking and impact on locker room culture—this was also a financial decision. The Texans are preparing to pay C.J. Stroud, Will Anderson Jr., and Derek Stingley Jr. big contracts in the coming years. Tunsil was going to demand another massive extension, and Houston simply couldn’t afford it.
Weapons for Stroud
Christian Kirk is a solid addition to the receiving corps, stepping into the role previously held by Stefon Diggs. He fits well in offensive coordinator Nick Caley’s system, which values slot receivers. This is the same role Cooper Kupp had with the Rams and Julian Edelman played in New England—both crucial pieces in their respective offenses, and teams Caley coached for.
Speaking of Kupp, the Texans don't appear likely to sign the veteran receiver. And we think that's a good thing due to concerns over his athleticism at this stage. Kupp, who ran an underwhelming 4.62 40-yard dash at the combine, certainly isn't running by anybody these days. But that didn't keep Larry Fitzgerald, who Kupp idolized, from having success late in his career. Fitzgerald managed to bounce back in his 30s with three straight 1,000-yard, 100-catch seasons starting at age 32. Kupp will be 32 this season. So it's possible a bigger slot receiver like Kupp could have a career renaissance like Fitzgerald, but it doesn't sound like Houston will take that gamble.
Looking ahead, the Texans need to draft a receiver and an offensive lineman with their first two draft picks. Stroud needs protection, and Houston needs another weapon to complement Kirk and Nico Collins. Keep in mind, Kirk will be a free agent after the 2025 season.
Final thoughts
The Texans have made bold moves to build a championship-caliber defense while resetting their offensive line. With one of the best defensive fronts in the league and a secondary that can lock down top receivers, Houston should be an elite unit in 2025. The offense still has work to do, but if they nail the draft, this team will be a serious contender once again in the AFC.
Don't miss the video below as the crew from Texans on Tap breaks down all the exciting moves from the Texans' offseason, and much more!
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