The Houston Astros are reportedly targeting outfielder Alex Verdugo to bolster their left field and add a left-handed power bat. Verdugo, who struggled last season with the Yankees, could be seeking a one-year prove-it deal worth over $10 million. This move would align with the Astros' strategy of staying above the first luxury tax threshold while avoiding the steeper penalties of the second threshold.
are looking for outfield help, specifically in left field, after the departure of Kyle Tucker who was traded to the
Presumably, the Astros would also like to add another left-handed bat to the lineup, one with power, that can help replace that lost production that the departure of Tucker represents.. It is a natural fit between Verdugo and the Astros as he would fill both needs both in terms of playing left field and adding a lefty to the lineup.
Verdugo had a down season with the Yankees last season slashing .233/.291/.356 with an 83 OPS+ . However, he was very productive with theDue to his down year in New York, Verdugo is likely looking for a one-year, prove it deal that could range north of just $10 million. That would put him on a contending team with the ability to hit free agency by his age-30 season and could then command a multi-year deal moving forward.
The Astros, notorious for keeping a tight pocket, are above the first luxury tax threshold and getting back underneath that mark seems unrealistic at this juncture in the offseason. Therefore, adding $10 million to the payroll is likely something owner Jim Crane would be willing to do as it would round out the roster without reaching the daunting second luxury tax threshold which taxes each dollar above the threshold at a 30% rate.
Verdugo has proven he is a serviceable regular in left field and playing for the Yankees may have not been the right situation for him. Many players have seen a decline playing in New York and moving to a smaller market like Houston may be just what the 29-year-old needs to get back on track and help propel the Astros to another postseason berth.Kade Kistner is the publisher and beat writer for Sports Illustrated's Inside the Phillies.
ASTROS VERDUGO OUTFIELD TRADE LEFT FIELD POWER BAT LUXURY TAX
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