"The Astros have spent the entire offseason looking for a left-handed hitting outfielder. They swapped Jesús Sánchez for Joey Loperfido last week. That saves around $6MM in the difference between Sánchez's arbitration salary and Loperfido's league minimum sum but doesn't change their lineup balance. They added Cavan Biggio on a minor league deal and are reportedly looking at Michael Conforto, who could also settle for a non-roster invite after a rough year in Los Angeles."
"Beyond Conforto, there are also (suspended for the first 80 games after a failed PED test), Jesse Winker and Alex Verdugo. If the Astros are going to make a significant move, it'll have to be via trade. Most of their trade pursuits have been tied to their willingness to field offers on Isaac Paredes given their infield logjam. That's one avenue but obviously not the only way they could trade for a lefty-hitting outfielder."
The Astros have prioritized finding a left-handed hitting outfielder during the offseason while making modest roster moves that have not altered lineup balance. A swap of Jesús Sánchez for Joey Loperfido reduced payroll but did not add a lefty bat. Minor-league signings like Cavan Biggio and workouts with Michael Conforto are depth options rather than guaranteed upgrades. Free agency mainly features reclamation candidates such as Conforto, Jesse Winker and Alex Verdugo. A meaningful acquisition is likeliest via trade, with the club exploring offers tied to Isaac Paredes and other, less-public trade avenues.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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