Houston’s lineup just got some much-needed clarity ahead of Opening Day. It’s a safe space to be honest about how Astros fans have been sweating over one big question. Is their $60 million slugger ready to go or will the team kick off the season without him? Spring training injuries have a painful way of throwing a twist into things. And this one really had people holding their breath.
Astros’ powerhouse first baseman, Christian Walker, is officially all set to enter the field on March 27. After battling with an oblique injury in spring training, his update was hanging in the balance. According to insider Brian McTaggart, Walker will be staying back for some more minor league ABs while the team departs for Houston. This will have him locked in and get ready for when it’s time to step up to the plate.
Having a stellar 2024 season (.251 AVG, 26 HR, 84 RBI, and .803 OPS in 130 games), the 33-year-old signed a three-year, $60 million contract with the Houston Astros, leaving the Arizona Diamondbacks after eight seasons. And if his past performances are anything to go by then it is safe to say that Walker will bring both consistency and power to the Astros and that’s exactly what they require.
Some morning Astros updates:
– Christian Walker will get ABs in Minor League games this weekend and will stay back to get more ABs while team returns to Houston. He will be ready for Opening Day.
– Hayden Wesneski was struck in left foot by a comebacker in a Minor League game…
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) March 21, 2025
On the other hand, pitcher Hayden Wesneski dealt with an injury concern after a comebacker struck his left foot in a minor league game. The good news is he was seen back on the field doing drills. After all, it’s a sign that things aren’t too serious. Although the Astros will be keeping an eye on him before landing on any roster decisions.
For now, let’s breathe easy as Walker will be back and Wesneski’s injury doesn’t look too bad. And with that, Houston is all ready to roll. But certain concerns still remain.
Astros face tough decision on star pitcher’s future as free agency looms
One of Houston’s biggest stars could be on his way out unless the team decides to act fast. Framber Valdez is about to hit the free agency market after the 2025 season. So far, there are no extension talks and no rumors of a deal in the works. Astros fans didn’t see this coming, keeping in mind how crucial he’s been to the rotation.
According to sources, the team hasn’t made a move yet to lock him down this spring. If history is any indication, the owner, Jim Crane, isn’t a fan of long-haul deals for pitchers. Interestingly, he has never gone beyond $85 million in guarantees, which perhaps won’t cut it this time. The way the market is trending, Valdez could effortlessly land a deal in the range of Max Fried; we’re talking 8 years, $218 million type of money.
Presently, the Astros have two options: one is to extend Valdez (which looks unlikely as of now) or simply trade him before he walks for nothing. Moving him will weaken the Astros’ 2025 World Series hopes. Keeping him has a risk of losing him for just a draft pick. It’s not a pretty spot to be in.
Valdez has logged in more innings than most and he has kept his ERA among the league’s best since 2021. It’s a time bomb for the Astros at the moment. Will they be breaking their rules to pay up? Or they might stick to their philosophy and keep the dice rolling. This decision will have a huge impact on their future, for better or worse. We will know more in no time.
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