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The Houston Astros are coming off a successful season. After a rocky start, they were able to pull themselves together throughout the season, winning the American League West for the fourth consecutive time.
However, they could look a whole lot different next season. They have nine players who are now free agents and open to sign with any team in the league that wants them.
Today, we go over which players the club is in danger of losing.
9 Astros players facing free agency
1) Alex Bregman
Alex Bregman is the biggest star on this list. He has been in Houston since his rookie season in 2016, helping them win two World Series and becoming a two-time All-Star.
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The two sides could not settle on a contract extension this season, but that does not mean the club cannot re-sign him. GM Dana Brown has stated that bringing him back will be the club's biggest priority.
2) Yusei Kikuchi
Yusei Kikuchi helped settle down the Astros' rotation after being traded from the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of the trade deadline. Across 10 starts, he went 5-1 with a 2.70 ERA on 60 innings of work.
With how he closed out the year, he will be somebody who gets plenty of looks this winter. Do not be surprised if multiple teams are after this crafty lefty.
3) Justin Verlander
Justin Verlander is another pitcher the club is at risk of losing. While he is getting up there in age, he has been adamant that he still has quality innings left. Brown has stated that the club is gearing up to talk to Verlander's representatives on a potential contract.
4) Jose Urquidy
Jose Urquidy is a bit of a surprise to this list. He was recently outrighted to free agency after the Astros had to open up roster space. He is coming off a season riddled with injuries and could look for a new team for a fresh start.
5) Hector Neris
Hector Neris is coming off his second sting in Houston after a rocky season with the Chicago Cubs. Being a relief pitcher with plenty of postseason experience, he may be an arm a team quickly signs.
6) Kendall Graveman
Kendall Graveman missed the entirety of the 2024 season after undergoing shoulder surgery. With his injury history, there is no telling who will be interested or how fast he could come off the board.
7) Caleb Ferguson
Caleb Ferguson is yet another pitcher on this list. he split his season with the New York Yankees before heading to Houston. He made 20 appearances, helping stabilize the bullpen, but was working on an expiring contract.
8) Ben Gamel
Ben Gamel was a late addition to the club. He was claimed off waivers from the New York Mets in late August and was impactful. He helped boost the team's outfield before breaking his leg in September.
9) Jason Heyward
Jason Heyward was another late addition to the Astros' roster. He was DFA'd by the Los Angeles Dodgers and picked up by Houston in late August. His stay was short, and will likely join his sixth different team this winter.
