After nine straight postseason appearances and two World Series titles, the Houston Astros find themselves in unfamiliar territory: on the outside looking in. For the first time since 2016, October baseball didn’t include Houston, and with that comes a clear shift in direction. The Astros are entering a new phase-one that looks a lot more like retooling than reloading.
At the center of this transition is outfielder Jake Meyers, who’s reportedly drawing significant trade interest as Houston looks to reshape its roster. According to league sources, the Astros are open to moving Meyers this winter-if the right return comes along.
And by “right return,” they’re targeting a controllable, major-league-ready starting pitcher. In other words, a rotation piece who’s not just a rental, but someone they can build around for the next few seasons.
Meyers, heading into his age-30 season, has quietly become one of the more intriguing trade chips on the market. He’s not a household name, but front offices around the league know his value-especially when it comes to defense.
While his offensive numbers were solid in 2025 (.292/.354/.373 with a .727 OPS), it’s his glove that’s kept him in the lineup. Meyers covers ground in center field with the kind of range and instincts that don’t always show up in the box score but make a major difference over 162 games.
It’s been a steady climb for Meyers, who was a 13th-round pick back in 2017. He made his MLB debut just three years later and, for much of his big-league career, played the role of a depth piece.
But last season marked a breakout of sorts-his most complete campaign to date. And now, with two years of club control remaining and a modest $2.3 million salary from 2025, he offers cost-effective value that’s hard to ignore in today’s market.
That’s why teams like the Phillies and Mets are reportedly circling. Both clubs have outfield holes to address-Philadelphia after Harrison Bader’s departure, and New York following the surprise trade of Brandon Nimmo.
The Mets, in particular, are navigating a tricky balance: they’ve cleared a long-term contract in Nimmo but didn’t exactly save cash in the short term. That makes a player like Meyers-affordable, productive, and under control-a smart fit for a team trying to stay competitive while keeping the books flexible.
The Phillies are in a similar boat. They’re eyeing big names like Kyle Schwarber and Edwin Diaz, which means they can’t afford to overspend on a center fielder. Meyers gives them an option that won’t break the bank and won’t compromise their pursuit of marquee free agents.
Other teams reportedly in the mix include the Rays, Orioles, Diamondbacks, and Royals-each with varying needs and budgets, but all looking to shore up center field without committing to a long-term deal. Meyers’ profile fits that mold perfectly: reliable defense, capable bat, and a team-friendly contract.
For Houston, moving Meyers would be less about giving up on a player and more about leveraging his value to address a pressing need. Their rotation isn’t what it once was, and with key arms aging or departing, they need reinforcements who can contribute now and stay in the fold for the future.
If the Astros find the right deal-a controllable starter with upside-don’t be surprised if Meyers is wearing a new uniform by spring training. It’s the kind of move that signals a shift in Houston’s approach, but also one that keeps them competitive in the long run.
This isn’t a teardown. It’s a recalibration.
And Jake Meyers might just be the piece that helps make it happen.