The Houston AstrosDetermined to put the entire sign-stealing scandal behind them, they are seized of the lead in the AL West this season of MLB.
With one foot in this year’s playoffs in the Big leagues, The Astros need to start thinking about the decisions they must make heading into the 2022 season, and these are the main ones.
Puerto Rican shortstop Carlos Correa has made it clear that he does not want to continue with Houston and that he will try free agency, but the team must insist on making him an offer to retain him. After many ups and downs, in August strap He regained his level and is now hitting .277 / .371 / .477 with 20 homers and 69 RBIs. His presence is key for the Astros.
After a year lost to knee injuries, Cuban outfielder and designated hitter Yordan Álvartez came back strong in 2021. He has a .280 / .344 / .533 average, eighth in slugging and OPS in the American League and seventh in RBIs with 89. He will also be under the team’s control in 2022 before he is eligible for refereeing and in Houston they should think about making a proposal to him to ensure it.
Right-handed reliever Ryan Pressly has been a key figure this year for manager Dusty Baker, in 52 games he has 22 saves, a 1.53 ERA, a 5-1 record and 68 strikeouts in 54.0 innings. The 32-year-old Pressly has a guaranteed contract for 2022 but it doesn’t hurt to be offered an option now to stay and lead the bullpen.
Veteran Justin Verlander tried, but failed to get ready to pitch in the 2021 season and will now be a free agent. He will go to market at 38 years of age and without having released more than one game in 2020. Zack Greinke assumed his role as ace of the rotation and Framber Valdez and Luis García have made significant contributions, so the stars should not take chances with Verlander.