PT TOMORROW: AL West—Unresolved

Houston Astros

Particularly given a BA-challenged offense that finished second in AL HR, the Astros' decision to non-tender arbitration-eligible Chris Carter seems like an easy call. At this point in the off-season, the first-base replacement(s) for Carter and Luis Valbuena (3B/1B, HOU)—currently projected back at 3B for now following the trade of Jed Lowrie to OAK—isn't obvious. But HOU has enough talent to hold March-through-May auditions and avoid the trade and free agent markets until the summer, and perhaps longer.

Start with Jon Singleton (DH/1B, HOU), who skill-wise is a left-handed-hitting, plus power and  patience, poor-contact clone of Carter and who GM Jeff Luhnow claims is the first baseman entering March. Once a...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am
The Angels may be trading some starting pitchers at the deadline, and George Klassen will be ready to help the team.
Jul 22 2026 3:05am
George Lombard Jr. has returned to health; could a major league call-up be next? Plus, major trade deadline implications as several AL East teams veer towards buyer or seller territory.
Jul 21 2026 3:05am

Tools