PT TOMORROW: AL WEST—Under the radar and MLB-ready

Houston Astros

It was inevitable, Martín Maldonado's (C, HOU) appearance in his 90th game last week triggered a $5m 2023 option. But with trade deadline acquisition Christian Vázquez (C, HOU) likely using free agency to seek a multi-year deal elsewhere, only half of the club's catching tandem seems set—particularly since HOU continues to give the defense-first Maldonado the bulk of the playing time despite another sub-par offensive performance (.179 BA through 285 BA). Maldonado is selling at the plate, and approaching his MLB HR high, with 12 to date. But a woeful 66% ct% and career .208 BA are entrenched—and at age 37 next season, Maldonado will likely be spending his last year with the Astros.

The pitching-first club has handed...

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

If the Mets hope to emulate the Knicks' success in ending their championship drought, they'll need more--much more--out of 1B. Plus: RF in PHI; C in WAS and ATL; RP/SP in WAS; more.
Jun 16 2026 3:11am
Is the red-hot Blaze Alexander forcing his way into the third base job in BAL? Plus, injury reinforcements coming for the BOS infield and TAM outfield, and more from around the AL East.
Jun 16 2026 3:05am
The Cardinals have a deep outfield bench but Báez could make an impact. Plus more from around the NL Central.
Jun 12 2026 3:05am
With Colt Keith struggling, is it time for the Tigers to give Jace Jung another shot? Plus, more potential call-ups for the White Sox, SP depth in CLE, an intriguing waiver claim in KC, and a possible closer in MIN.
Jun 11 2026 3:07am
With Hunter Brown returning soon, Mike Burrows may be the odd man out in the rotation.
Jun 10 2026 3:05am

Tools