Astros Struggling in 2026 Season
The Houston Astros have been one of the most stable teams in Major League Baseball over the past decade. With a record of 890 wins and 627 losses, they hold the second-best winning percentage in the league. They’ve celebrated World Series victories in 2022 and 2017, although the latter win is overshadowed by a significant cheating scandal.
Since 2017, the Astros have reached the World Series four times, secured the AL West division title seven times out of eight years, and made the playoffs for eight consecutive seasons. However, that playoff streak ended in 2025 due to injuries, resulting in an 87-75 record. The team aimed for a strong turnaround in 2026, banking on the return of ace Hunter Brown, newcomer Tatsuya Imai, closer Josh Hader, and star hitter Yordan Alvarez, along with the return of Carlos Correa.
Fast forward to mid-May, and things aren’t looking great for the Astros. Following another loss recently, their record fell to 16-25, putting them at the bottom of their division and showcasing one of the worst run differentials in the American League.
On top of their record woes, the team faces serious challenges with player injuries. Hunter Brown has spent much of the season sidelined due to a shoulder issue. Josh Hader is yet to pitch this year because of left biceps tendonitis. Jeremy Pena has been out since mid-April from a hamstring strain. Imai has struggled and attributed his difficulties to adjusting to life in America, leading to arm fatigue. Cristian Javier is also dealing with shoulder tightness.
The situation worsened last week when Correa suffered a torn tendon in his ankle during batting practice, which will keep him out for the entire season.
Some injured players are expected to return in the coming weeks, but this raises a tough question for a team usually in playoff contention: Is it time to sell? The upcoming free agent market seems weak, especially with key player Tarik Skubal also injured. Should the Astros consider trading Alvarez to rebuild for the future?
Bob Nightengale from USA Today noted a scout comparing Alvarez to Barry Bonds, suggesting the potential trade could yield significant returns. The scout remarked, “He’s the greatest pure hitter I’ve seen in this game since Barry Bonds.” Another executive echoed this sentiment, saying a trade could attract a better package than what the Nationals received for Juan Soto.
While a trade isn’t imminent, it seems unwise for the Astros to ignore any serious offers. Alvarez has been performing exceptionally well this season, hitting .327 with 13 home runs and 195 weighted RBIs. He’s only 28 and is under contract through 2028. Even though his defensive skills are lacking, his offensive performance is undeniably valuable, and it could attract numerous offers from interested teams.
For instance, the Mets are actively seeking offensive reinforcement. The Boston Red Sox might be inclined to make a move, and the San Francisco Giants, under manager Buster Posey, have shown interest in significant trades. If Alvarez becomes available, the list of suitors will likely grow, especially considering Houston’s older roster and the injuries plaguing them. Perhaps it’s time to rethink their approach.
