The Houston Astros went with familiarity to fill their outfield void, bringing back Michael Brantley on a one-year deal.
Houston needed a corner outfielder, especially after letting Trey Mancini walk. While they had rumored interest in Andrew Benintendi and Michael Conforto, they eventually went with a familiar face in Michael Brantley.
Brantley, who had health concerns last season as he only played in 64 games, is only one year removed from an AL All-Star appearance. In 2021, Brantley slashed .311/.362/.437, though he missed 40 games as well.
Health is almost a constant factor for Brantley, and it’s likely why his contract isn’t of a higher monetary value in what’s proven to be a players’ market.
Houston Astros re-sign Michael Brantley: What’s next?
Michael Brantley, should he stay healthy, can make up to $4 million in incentives, as well.
Houston still needs to figure out their long-term plan at catcher. The Astros were said to be in on Willson Contreras, until they weren’t. They traded for Christian Vazquez, only to let him leave in free agency. And the Braves traded for former Athletics catcher Sean Murphy.
There are plenty of catchers still available on the trade market, including Alejandro Kirk of the Toronto Blue Jays, should Houston wish to pull the trigger. Martin Maldonado is a respected member of the Astros locker room, and has done tremendous work with the pitching staff.
Still, he leaves much to be desired at the plate, and routinely hits under the Mendoza line. A platoon, of some sort, has been a long time coming.
With corner outfielder now officially taken care of, catcher is where fans should expect the Houston front office to turn their attention.