Houston Astros fans understood that the team was not likely to strike any blockbuster deals this offseason. Barring a very unlikely trade to rid themselves of payroll, the Astros' financial constraints were always going to limit what they could and could not do. However, Astros fans also expect the team to be competitive in 2026 and for the front office to be creative in bolstering the roster.
If the rumors are true, those fans may want to brace for disappointment. This is not the only player the Astros could acquire, but that Houston has been connected to a Mike Burrows trade by The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal should stand as a warning that this could be an even quieter offseason from the Astros than everyone thought.