Here are the short and long-term implications of Verlander's return to Astros
PRESENTED BY COORS LIGHT
02 August 2023
The Houston Astros sent shock waves through MLB on Tuesday when they traded for future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander. And the addition of JV clearly is making an impact in the betting markets.
Adding Verlander immediately changed Houston's odds for this season. The Astros are now the favorites to win the American League, with only the Dodgers and Braves having better odds to win the World Series. But that's just looking at the immediate impact of the move. Another factor to consider is Houston's championship window.
That window has been extended, at least for another two or three years with Verlander under team control for the foreseeable future. However, once the Astros reach the 2026 season, it may be time for a lengthy rebuild considering the state of the farm system and contracts that are set to expire by then.
But who knows, that's a long time from now, and the Astros are looking to go all in and cement their dynasty with a third championship. Tuesday certainly was a landmark day for Astros fans, and not just because of Verlander.
Not to be upstaged, Framber Valdez went out and tossed a no-hitter against the Cleveland Guardians. What a time to be an Astros fan!
Be sure to watch the video above as we examine all the implications of the trade deadline, and much more!
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How Astros could still be in on Bregman, definitely out on another
Jan 20, 2025, 6:05 pm
As we begin another week of free agency, Alex Bregman remains unsigned, but one of the Astros reported targets Anthony Santander has a new home.
Santander has reportedly agreed to a 5-year, $92.5 million contract with the Blue Jays. Many were hoping that the Astros would make a play for the switch hitting power hitter, as he would have provided some serious thump.
Now it appears the Astros will enter the 2025 season with one of the weakness outfields in baseball when it comes to offense.
Speaking of Bregman, Astros manager Joe Espada recently told Fox 26's Nate Griffin that the team is still in contact with Breggy despite General Manger Dana Brown telling the media the team decided to pivot after talks stalled with Bregman's camp.
If there still remains a possibility of Bregman returning, one has to wonder if the Astros reported 6-year, $156 million contract offer is still on the table after the club traded for Isaac Paredes to fill the hole at third base. And if they do make a deal with Bregman, what do they do with Paredes?
Also, now that we know how much money Santander commanded on the open market. Which signing would have benefited the Astros the most? Santander at 5-years, $92.5 million, or Bregman at 6-years, $156 million?
Don't miss the video above as we discuss the possibility of Bregman returning, the Dodgers' absurd free agency (that now involves even more deferred money), Billy Wagner, and much more!
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