WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — As pitchers and catchers reported to CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches on Wednesday, the Houston Astros officially began their push to return to the postseason after missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Here are the top storylines to watch as camp gets underway:
Trade Watch: Infield Logjam Remains
The Astros remain open to trading either third baseman Isaac Paredes or first baseman Christian Walker as they look to resolve an overcrowded infield and add a left-handed bat.
Paredes, a two-time All-Star who turns 27 this month, was on pace for 40 home runs before a hamstring injury sidelined him for two months last season. With Carlos Correa at third base, Jeremy Peña at shortstop, and Jose Altuve returning to second, Houston has more established infielders than everyday spots available.
Walker’s contract — two years and $40 million remaining — could make a deal more difficult. If no move materializes, Paredes could shift into a versatile role, providing coverage across the infield and at designated hitter.
Rotation Competition Heats Up
After prioritizing pitching depth this offseason, the Astros enter camp with an unusually crowded rotation picture.
Hunter Brown and Cristian Javier appear locked into starting roles, while Japanese standout Tatsuya Imai and Mike Burrows — acquired from Pittsburgh — bring additional upside. The remaining spots, in what could become a six-man rotation, will be contested by Lance McCullers Jr., Spencer Arrighetti, Ryan Weiss, Nate Pearson, Jason Alexander, AJ Blubaugh, and Colton Gordon.
The added depth offers protection against the injury issues that plagued Houston’s staff in 2025, with several arms likely beginning the season in Triple-A as ready reinforcements.
Correa’s Leadership Presence
Carlos Correa’s return last July provided more than production — it helped restore a leadership presence many felt was missing after Alex Bregman’s departure following the 2024 season.
Correa quickly asserted himself, calling a team meeting after a tough August loss and working closely with manager Joe Espada during the offseason. The two reportedly met several times over the winter to discuss expectations and direction for the club.
At FanFest last month, Correa hinted that improved routines and preparation could play a role in keeping players healthier in 2026, signaling a renewed focus on accountability heading into camp.
Battle for Outfield Spots
For the second straight year, a rookie could factor into the Opening Day outfield picture.
Twenty-five-year-old Zach Cole, who impressed during his September debut, is the early favorite for a role in left field after the Astros traded top prospect Jacob Melton to create an opportunity.
Meanwhile, 22-year-old Cam Smith — last year’s Opening Day right fielder, acquired in the Kyle Tucker trade — faces real competition to hold onto his roster spot. General manager Dana Brown has made it clear that Smith must produce at the plate to avoid a potential return to Triple-A.
With Jake Meyers established in center and Jesús Sánchez providing a left-handed presence in right field, Smith enters camp with little margin for error.
As spring unfolds, these position battles, roster decisions, and leadership dynamics will help shape the Astros’ path back toward October.