Astros Free Agent Predictions

In the midst of the Astros electronic sign-stealing scandal, it's easy to forget that the Winter Meetings are just months away. With the hot stove expected to heat up momentarily, what will the American League champions do to win back their fanbase in these trying times?

Astros Lose Gerrit Cole, But Sign Zack Wheeler

Cole is going to demand too much money, plain and simple. While the Astros will give him a generous offer, the Calif. native is likely to return home, or head to a new destination after things flamed out in Cole's final days in Houston, which included a perhaps avoidable World Series defeat.

In his place, Houston should sign Wheeler, who was connected to the Stros at the most recent trade deadline. He won't put up Cole numbers, but with Brent Strom as his pitching coach, Wheeler will improve upon his 3.96 ERA with the Mets from 2019.

Astros Pursue Dellin Betances...Hard

I won't go as far as to say the Stros will land the Yankees reliever, but if Houston wants to dole a significant blow to the New York bullpen, signing Betances would be a start. The 31-year-old is coming off a season-ending Achilles injury, but at his best is a potential All-Star at the back end of the bullpen. Houston needs help in that area, especially in front of Roberto Osuna.

Astros Shop George Springer and Court Nicholas Castellanos

George Springer is a phenomenal leadoff hitter for the Astros, but it remains to be seen if he fits into Houston's long-term plans. With Springer's deal done in 2020, expect the Astros to see what they can get out of their star outfielder now. With that in mind, the likes of Nicholas Castellanos, coming off an elite second half with the Cubs, would make a ton of sense. Even better -- he'd reunite with former Tiger Justin Verlander, and be able to play DH in the American League since he's lacking as a defender.