The Houston Astros bounced back in a big way last season after limping into the postseason with a losing record (29-31). Houston lost in the World Series to the Braves while extending their streak of playoff appearances to five years. The Astros have one World Series title (2017).
Houston finished seventh in ERA (3.76), but their bullpen slipped to the league average (32 wins, 31 losses and 34 saves with a 4.06 ERA – 15th). They led the majors in runs (863) with 221 home runs (9th) and 53 stolen bases (27th).
The top signing in the offseason was SP Justin Verlander for one season ($25 million). In addition, the Astros added RP Hector Neris to their bullpen. SS Carlos Correa, SP Zack Greinke and 3B Marwin Gonzalez remain unsigned in the free-agent pool. Houston also lost RP Kendall Graveman (HOU), Yimi Garcia (TOR) and RP Brooks Raley (TB).
