The Houston Astros' top need this offseason is a No. 2 starter to fill the void Framber Valdez is sure to leave, and slot in behind Hunter Brown and the question marks that follow. But that won't be the only hole the Astros will need to plug this winter.
Houston didn't maximize all of the cost savings available before the non-tender deadline, and is now stuck with only about $26 million to work with this winter in order to stay below the self-imposed limit that is the $244 million luxury tax line. Of course, they can't get right up next to the line either, as they'll need an emergency fund to bring into the regular season in order to maneuver as needed.