Latest Astros rumors explain Houston’s strange non-tender decision

Houston Astros v Miami Marlins | Carmen Mandato/GettyImagesGiven the Houston Astros' payroll constraints, most followers expected the team to take advantage of last month's non-tender deadline and rid themselves of some under performing players in order to free up cash and roster spots. The Astros, however, largely stood pat and held on to most of their non-tender candidates including the much-maligned Jesús Sanchez.

The Astros, desperate for some left-handed thump, traded for Sanchez at the July 31 deadline last summer. Sanchez seemed like a great fit at the time, but his .611 OPS in 160 plate appearances after the trade was not what Houston was hoping for. Despite his poor performance, the…