The Houston Astros head into this offseason with some clear priorities-and a few pressing holes to patch up. With Framber Valdez likely headed elsewhere in free agency, the rotation needs reinforcement.
But pitching isn’t the only area that could use a boost. The Astros’ lineup has skewed heavily right-handed, and adding a quality left-handed bat could go a long way in restoring some balance.
First base also remains a question mark. While Christian Walker has been mentioned in the mix, there’s no firm indication that the Astros are locked in on him as the long-term answer. That leaves the front office with multiple needs to address this winter-starting pitching, lineup balance, and potentially a new first baseman.
Enter LaMonte Wade Jr., a name that’s starting to generate some buzz as a potential fit in Houston. The former Twin and Giant is still on the market, and he checks a lot of boxes for what the Astros are looking for. He’s a left-handed bat with a sharp eye at the plate, and he brings versatility and experience without a massive price tag.
From 2023 to 2024, Wade posted a .376 on-base percentage and racked up 4.9 rWAR-a strong indicator of his value when healthy and in rhythm. He’s not a splashy signing, but he’s the kind of player who can quietly elevate a lineup. His ability to get on base, extend at-bats, and avoid chasing pitches would give Houston a different look in the batter’s box-something they’ve lacked in recent seasons.
Defensively, Wade could slot in at first base, a position he’s handled before. That flexibility would give Houston some breathing room as they navigate other roster decisions. And while he wouldn’t be the centerpiece of the offseason, he’d be a smart, strategic piece-a move that addresses multiple needs without breaking the bank.
Of course, Houston isn’t the only team eyeing Wade. The Rockies and Nationals have also been mentioned as potential suitors, so if the Astros are serious about adding him, they may need to move quickly. In a market where value signings can make all the difference, Wade represents a low-risk, high-upside option.
Bottom line: Wade isn’t a headline-grabber, but he’s the kind of player who could quietly make a big impact-especially on a team like Houston that’s looking to fine-tune its roster for another deep postseason run.