Insider reveals the Astros will be in the market for a reliever this winter originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Houston Astros did not have much of a bullpen problem this season. Despite losing Josh Hader toward the end of the season, Houston’s bullpen was a major strength.
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They were able to get some help from Bryan Abreu and Steven Okert, whom the team signed this past November. He had a career year, appearing in 68 games, holding together a 3.01 ERA on 71.2 innings of work.
If Houston wants to overcome missing the postseason this year, their bullpen will be a large part of it. and the club could look at adding to an already fearsome bullpen over the winter.
Like every offseason, there will be a list of relievers that Houston could choose from to help them in 2026. MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart urges the club to look at some of these options and make their bullpen formidable.
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“The Astros’ bullpen held its own for much of last season, but the loss of All-Star closer Josh Hader in early August proved too much to overcome. So were injuries to other key bullpen arms down the stretch in Kaleb Ort and Bennett Sousa. If Hader returns to begin next season, he and Bryan Abreu remain an elite back-end bullpen combo. The Astros will be in the market to add a proven arm or two to bolster bullpen depth and hope they can stay healthier on the mound in 2026.”
Houston could have some intriguing options to choose from this winter. Edwin Diaz has an opt-out clause in his contract, and Aroldis Chapman has a mutual option in his contract. They could also take a look at expected free agents like Devin Williams, Ryan Helsley, Kenley Jansen, or David Bednar, just to name a few.
