It shouldn't be understated how much the MLB trade deadline wrecked the Houston Astros' offseason plans. Jim Crane finding a way to coax Carlos Correa away from the Minnesota Twins (while taking on most of his contract) didn't just backfire with Houston missing the playoffs in 2025, but it has added to just how much Dana Brown and Co. have been handcuffed this winter.
The Astros are not without needs--they need to replace Framber Valdez, the offense is begging for a different look to it, and the bullpen may need another veteran arm--but their payroll outlook is significantly limiting what they can do.