**MLB Free Agency 2024: Potential Early Signings for the Houston Astros**
As Major League Baseball (MLB) enters the 2024 free agency period, the Houston Astros, perennial contenders, are once again at the crossroads of building a championship roster. After an intense postseason run in 2023, where they fell short of capturing another World Series title, the Astros will likely target a few key additions to bolster their already strong lineup and pitching staff. While their core is in place, Houston’s front office will need to make shrewd decisions in free agency to maintain its position as a top-tier team in the American League.
Here are some educated guesses on the potential early signings for the Houston Astros as the 2024 free agency period unfolds.
### 1. **Carlos Rodón – Starting Pitcher**
The Astros have consistently maintained one of the best pitching staffs in the league, but with the looming uncertainty over the future of some of their veteran arms and potential departures, securing a high-impact starting pitcher could be a priority.
Carlos Rodón, a left-handed starting pitcher, is coming off a less-than-ideal 2023 campaign with the New York Yankees, but his electric stuff still suggests he could be a significant asset for any contender. Rodón, who signed a six-year, $162 million contract with the Yankees in 2022, struggled with injuries and inconsistencies in 2023. However, prior to that, he was one of the most dominant pitchers in the league with the San Francisco Giants, posting a 2.88 ERA and a 12.0 K/9 rate in 2021.
The Astros have always been known for their ability to develop pitchers and optimize their stuff, and Rodón could be a reclamation project for them. If Houston can help him find his rhythm, he could become a frontline starter to complement Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, and José Urquidy. With their postseason window still wide open, adding a premium arm like Rodón would solidify the rotation for 2024.
### 2. **Javier Báez – Shortstop**
While the Astros have arguably the best shortstop in the league in Jeremy Peña, Houston may look for a versatile utility infielder to provide depth and insurance in case of injury, or even to add some competition to Peña’s spot.
Javier Báez, who spent 2023 with the Detroit Tigers, could be a smart fit. The two-time Gold Glove winner and 2018 NL RBI leader is known for his electric bat and elite defensive skills. Báez had a rough 2023 season, hitting just .220 with a .273 on-base percentage, but his pedigree and potential for a bounce-back year make him an intriguing option.
In a part-time role, Báez could contribute at both shortstop and second base, offering an upgrade over some of the depth pieces the Astros currently employ. While he wouldn’t necessarily be a starter over Peña, his flexibility and ability to hit for power would make him a valuable asset off the bench, as well as in the Astros’ competitive lineup.
### 3. **Kevin Gausman – Starting Pitcher**
Another potential starting pitching target for the Astros could be Kevin Gausman, the Toronto Blue Jays’ ace. Gausman is coming off a solid 2023 season, in which he posted a 3.23 ERA and finished with 235 strikeouts. Gausman’s split-changeup is one of the best in baseball, and he has consistently been a durable workhorse in the rotation.
While the Astros are already stacked with a strong pitching staff, adding an established, high-quality arm like Gausman would push them over the top. His ability to eat innings while keeping opposing hitters off balance with his off-speed offerings makes him an excellent candidate for the Astros to consider.
If Gausman’s asking price aligns with their budget, Houston could look to make a run at the 33-year-old veteran. His experience in the postseason, as well as his proven ability to handle high-leverage situations, would make him a valuable asset for the Astros as they continue to build a World Series-caliber team.
### 4. **Yasmani Grandal – Catcher**
The Astros will likely be looking to address their catching situation in the offseason, especially with Martín Maldonado approaching the twilight of his career. Although Maldonado is still a valuable asset for his leadership and game-calling, Houston may want to upgrade the offensive production from behind the plate.
Yasmani Grandal, the longtime Chicago White Sox catcher, could be an intriguing option. Despite some struggles at the plate in recent years, Grandal still possesses a strong eye and the ability to get on base. Over the last few seasons, his on-base percentage has consistently been one of the highest among catchers, making him a solid fit for Houston’s lineup.
In addition to his offensive skills, Grandal is a solid defensive catcher with a reputation for handling pitchers effectively. As a potential platoon option with Maldonado, Grandal would help keep the Astros’ lineup balanced while allowing Maldonado to continue providing value in a mentoring role.
### 5. **Josh Hader – Relief Pitcher**
While the Astros’ bullpen is one of the more reliable units in baseball, Houston could look to bolster its late-inning relief options by signing one of the most dominant closers in the game: Josh Hader. Hader, who spent 2023 with the San Diego Padres, has been one of the most feared left-handed relievers in recent seasons, recording a 1.46 ERA and 100 strikeouts in 2023.
With Houston having several key bullpen arms (including Ryan Pressly and Bryan Abreu), adding a lights-out closer like Hader would provide an extra layer of security in late-game situations. The Astros may see Hader as a potential addition to close games in the postseason, where he could be the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit.
Hader’s dominant fastball and slider combination makes him a prime candidate for teams with postseason aspirations, and if the price is right, Houston could look to bring him in to further solidify their bullpen.
### 6. **Cody Bellinger – Outfielder**
The Astros may look to improve their outfield depth in 2024, and one potential target could be Cody Bellinger. After a bounce-back 2023 season with the Chicago Cubs, Bellinger returned to his MVP-caliber form, hitting .307 with 26 home runs and 97 RBIs. His defensive ability, particularly in center field, and his power potential would make him an intriguing addition to the Astros’ roster.
Although Bellinger may be a bit of a luxury for the Astros, given their existing outfield depth with Kyle Tucker, Chas McCormick, and Yordan Álvarez, he could be used in a platoon or even as a regular starter if they feel his bat can further balance their already potent lineup. His ability to hit for both average and power could fit perfectly into the Astros’ lineup, particularly if they’re looking to add another left-handed bat.
### Conclusion
While the Houston Astros’ roster is already strong, their front office will likely target a few key signings in the 2024 MLB free agency period to further enhance their chances of returning to the World Series. Whether it’s adding another dominant arm to the rotation, bolstering the bullpen, or securing a versatile position player, the Astros’ shrewd decisions in free agency could make the difference in maintaining their championship window for years to come.
Each of the players mentioned – from Rodón and Gausman to Hader and Bellinger – would provide significant value to Houston, either as starters, depth pieces, or high-leverage contributors. If the Astros’ front office can make a few wise investments in free agency, the team will remain a top contender for the 2024 season and beyond.
