Astros seeking outfield bat, relief help, veteran starter
Club has checked in with several free agents, ready to spend significant money
HOUSTON -- Astros manager Bo Porter said Thursday the team has reached out to several free agents in its quest to find an outfield bat, relief pitching help and a veteran starting pitcher to add to the young rotation.
The Astros are taking a wait-and-see approach before diving in, but this will be the first time under the current ownership and management regime that they're going to spend significant money. Owner Jim Crane said last month the payroll could wind up between $50 million to $60 million.
"It's an ongoing conversation each and every day," Porter said. "All the conversations are fluid. There are a lot of free agents out there that we have checked in with and I believe are going to be able to help out our ballclub.
"As the market starts to shake out, we'll get more aggressive for the guys we believe will really make an impact on our ballclub. We're in a better position this year than last offseason, as far as acquiring players that will be able to help the Major League team."