The Houston Astros somehow clinched the AL West title with a mediocre 81-81 record, a finish that really showed off their glaring lack of pitching depth. Despite a breakout season from Peter Lambert, the rotation behind right-hander Hunter Brown just wasn’t cutting it, and it nearly cost them everything. Now, with the offseason in full swing, Houston is desperately searching for a frontline starter, and Chicago Cubs veteran Shota Imanaga is on their radar.
Astros Need Pitching Help, Imanaga’s Stats Tell A Story
It’s no secret the Astros need to beef up their rotation if they want to stay contenders. Jim Bowden over at The Athletic is linking them directly to Imanaga, who spent his first three Major League seasons with the Cubs. This isn’t just about adding a body, it’s about adding a *piece* that can make a real difference, especially since ace Tarik Skubal might be out of their price range. Imanaga’s best season was his rookie year in 2024, rocking a stellar 2.91 ERA. While his walks have climbed each year and home runs have been an issue during his time with the Cubs, Bowden highlights that his split-finger fastball remains an elite pitch. That’s a weapon, plain and simple, and it’s exactly what a rotation looking for a boost needs.
Transition Time in Houston: A Pitcher Hunt With No Leadership?
The Astros are facing a wild winter, not just in terms of player acquisitions, but in their front office. They’ve already parted ways with both their GM, Dana Brown, and manager, Joe Espada. Talk about a period of transition! This means any significant move, like signing Imanaga, is happening while the team looks for new leadership. Besides Houston, Bowden also linked Imanaga to a potential reunion with the Cubs and a move to the San Francisco Giants, who are also looking for depth behind Logan Webb. Bowden projects Imanaga to land a three-year, $69 million deal. If the Astros can pull that off, it would be a solid step in the right direction, especially if they want to keep Yordan Alvarez’s prime years competitive.
This winter is going to be crucial for Houston. With no GM or manager currently calling the shots, every free agency decision carries even more weight. Landing Imanaga would be a statement, showing they’re serious about staying in the hunt for the AL West and beyond, even with an 81-81 division win under their belt.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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