If there's one thing the Houston Astros need to find this offseason, it's a reliable starting pitcher. While Framber Valdez wore out his welcome in Houston — especially after that cross-up with Cesar Salazar — the Astros could always rely on him to take the ball every fifth day.
But with Valdez likely out the door via free agency and multiple starters expected to open the 2026 season on the injured list, GM Dana Brown has to be on the lookout for a durable pitcher this offseason.
ESPN's Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel recently released a list of the top-25 most likely trade candidates this offseason, and Houston was connected to several.