Inside the Astros

Could Houston Astros Pursue Available All-Star First Baseman?

The Houston Astros desperately need help at the first base position, could they pursue a newly available MLB All-Star?

Kade Kistner

Could Houston Astros Pursue Available All-Star First Baseman?
Could Houston Astros Pursue Available All-Star First Baseman? /
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The Houston Astros have been left severely disappointed by first baseman José Abreu, the man they signed to replace Yuli Gurriel at the position this past winter. 

Abreu, the former 2020 American League MVP, is slashing .218/.273/.259 with zero home runs this season. It's been an abysmal performance that has hamstrung the Astros offensively. 

In fact, it has prompted Houston to work both Yanier Diaz and Mauricio Dubon out at the position. Both have played well offensively this season, more so the latter who leads the team in hits and runs scored. 

But there could be another solution. 

Former Chicago Cubs first baseman Eric Hosmer was recently DFA'd by the Cubs. While only a shell of his former self that won four Gold Gloves and a Silver Slugger award, Hosmer may still have something to offer. 

Hosmer can play sound defense in the field. He has a veteran presence and he has won a World Series, so he has the pedigree to fit in with the Astros who are always looking to add another trophy to their case. 

Furthermore, Hosmer holds a 68 OPS+, which is well below average, but sits 20 points higher than Abreu's at 48.

By all measures, Hosmer would be an upgrade at the position. Furthermore, he would only cost the veteran league minimum prorated to the remainder of the season. He would not cost any prospects, it would not require a trade, just a spot on the active roster. 

Additionally, it wouldn't be a long term commitment. Perhaps just a stopgap until Abreu rounds into form or another solution presents itself.

It's exactly the type of deal Houston could make without an impact to the future prospects of the club while addressing a very near-term issue. 

It's worth exploring. 

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Kade Kistner
KADE KISTNER

Kade Kistner is the publisher and beat writer for Sports Illustrated's Inside the Phillies. An alumnus of Tulane University, Kade graduated in 2017 with a degree in Latin American Studies and a minor in Spanish. Upon graduation, Kade commissioned into the United States Navy and attended Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Fl. He served as a Naval Aviator and was stationed in Jacksonville, Fl. During his time in school and the Navy, Kade began covering the MLB and NFL with USA Today, SB Nation, and Sports Illustrated. Kade covered the New Orleans Saints, Texas Rangers, and numerous other teams within the Sports Illustrated network before launching Inside the Phillies, Inside the Astros, and Inside the Cubs. You can follow him on Twitter at @KadeKistner, or if you have any questions or comments he can be reached via email at kwkistner@gmail.com.

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