WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Astros continued building organizational depth this week, signing corner infielder CJ Alexander to a minor league contract. The 29-year-old is expected to report to Triple-A Sugar Land as Houston fortifies its roster heading toward Opening Day.
Alexander’s career has followed the familiar path of a fringe major leaguer. Last season alone, he was claimed off waivers by the Dodgers from the Yankees in early July, then designated for assignment by Los Angeles within a week, his third DFA in just over a month. He previously appeared in games for Oakland in 2025 before being waived.
After clearing waivers, Alexander spent the remainder of the season in the Dodgers’ minor league system and elected free agency in November.
Limited MLB Track Record
Alexander’s big league experience is limited: 10 games across parts of two seasons with Kansas City and Oakland. He went 4-for-25 in those appearances, finishing with a -10 OPS+.
His minor league résumé is stronger. Alexander has hit at least 15 home runs in each of the past four seasons, showing consistent power production at Triple-A. That power is what continues to generate interest despite his difficulty sticking at the major league level.
Family Baseball Ties
Alexander also comes from a baseball family. His younger brother, Blaze Alexander, recently joined the Baltimore Orioles after beginning his career with Arizona and is carving out a utility role at the major league level.
CJ Alexander primarily plays first base, which presents a narrow path to Houston’s roster. Isaac Paredes and Christian Walker are expected to handle the bulk of the corner infield duties, with Paredes also capable of sliding to third base.
Long Odds, Necessary Depth
Alexander faces long odds of making the Opening Day roster. The Astros’ corner spots are spoken for, and both Walker and Paredes figure prominently into the club’s plans.
Still, roster depth matters over a 162-game season. Injuries arise. Performance fluctuates. Opportunities surface unexpectedly. If Alexander produces in Sugar Land and circumstances create an opening, he could earn another major league look.
For now, he represents the type of experienced Triple-A depth every contender values: a power bat with big league exposure who can step in if needed.
Photo: Minda Haas Kuhlmann / Flickr (CC BY 2.0)
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