Astros' Lowrie, Norris, Wright file for arbitration
The players and the team have to exchange numbers by Friday, and arbitration hearings are scheduled to take place between Feb. 4 and 20. Both sides can negotiate contracts any time prior to a hearing, and the Astros are hopeful to reach negotiated settlements without a hearing.
Norris and Wright are arbitration eligible for the first time, and Lowrie for the second time. Lowrie made $1.15 million last year in his first year with Houston, and he could double his salary next season. Norris ($511,000 in '12) and Wright ($512,000) are also in line for substantial raises.
Wright, 27, was 2-2 with a 3.27 a career-high 77 games last year, which led the Astros and ranked tied for sixth in the National League. His .226 batting average allowed ranked fifth in the NL among left-handed relievers.
Norris, 27, went 7-13 with a 4.65 ERA in 29 starts last year, allowing 165 hits and striking out 165 in 168 1/3 innings. He had a 0-12, 6.34 ERA streak in 18 starts in the middle of the season while he battled injuries and inconsistencies. Norris had a 1.71 ERA at home and 6.94 on the road.
Lowrie, 28, set career highs in games (97), at-bats (340), runs (43), hits (83), home runs (16) and walks (43) despite missing 52 games with a sprained right ankle and leg injury. He wound up hitting .244 with 42 RBIs.