Even elementary-level mathematicians can point to the Houston Astros' 2026 payroll outlook as the reason why they haven't exactly made headlines this offseason. With the financial goal of remaining under the first level of CBT, and having around $24 million in space, it speaks to the reason why they haven't been at the forefront of free-agent rumors.
It's why when free-agent matches connect the Astros to names like Zac Gallen or Michael King, it sounds great on paper, but it doesn't match reality. The Astros need to replace Framber Valdez at the top of their rotation, and there are a number of options available in free agency.