After a quieter-than-expected non-tender deadline, the Houston Astros' inaction led to a tight financial situation, making it difficult to see how the club could make significant maneuvers this winter. With a No. 2 starter being a pressing need, it seemed as if the club was going to be forced to roll the dice on upside plays and fliers, hoping that a cheap play could rise and exceed expectations.
At first, it seemed like that was the plan. Early on, the Astros agreed to terms with former first-round bust Nate Pearson. Next, Houston signed under-the-radar KBO star Ryan Weiss, hoping his stellar 2.