Houston Astros mailbag: Clarifying the Mauricio Dubón trade and updating Isaac Paredes' situation

The Houston Astros have experienced a relatively subdued start to the baseball offseason, with only a few notable transactions so far. November saw some movement across the league, including Josh Naylor returning to the Mariners, Marcus Semien and Brandon Nimmo switching teams between the Rangers and Mets, and several deals involving starting pitchers, the primary target for Houston this offseason.

Toronto's signing of Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million contract defined the top tier of the free-agent pitching market, a segment where the Astros are unlikely to participate without adjusting their operating approach. Meanwhile, Boston traded two young pitchers, including its No. 5 prospect according to MLB Pipeline, to the Cardinals in exchange for Sonny Gray, a veteran capable of filling a No. 2 or No. 3 rotation role.

From a roster perspective, Houston's most significant transaction has been trading utility player Mauricio Dubn to Atlanta for backup infielder Nick Allen. With MLB's winter meetings approaching in Orlando, Fla., activity may pick up across the league.

Q&A with Astros Fans

Q: Why did the Astros trade Mauricio Dubn?

A: The deal of Dubn for Allen received mixed reactions from fans. Dubn, a Gold Glove-winning versatile defender and World Series veteran, was popular in the clubhouse. However, the financial rationale was clear. Dubn was projected to earn $5.8 million next season in his final arbitration year, while Allen is expected to make $1.5 million. Recent moves, including the departures of Dubn, Ramn Uras, Chas McCormick, and Luis Garcia, reduced the projected 2026 payroll by roughly $15.8 million and provided additional flexibility under the luxury tax. Astros GM Dana Brown noted limited playing time for Dubn in 2026, making Allen a cost-effective backup option and freeing up payroll for potential acquisitions.

Q: Why were Taylor Trammell and Jess Snchez tendered?

A: Trammell, a left-handed hitter capable of covering all outfield positions, agreed to a split contract for 2026, costing only $900,000 for major league time, providing economical depth. Snchez, despite struggles and a projected $6.5 million arbitration salary, remains a potential trade asset, though a return cannot be ruled out. Houston values his left-handed bat and hopes new hitting coaches may help improve his performance. With no guaranteed roster spot for Cam Smith, the outfield situation remains fluid.

Q: Why did former pitching coach Bill Murphy leave?

A: Murphy, who shared co-pitching coach duties with Josh Miller, accepted a promotion from the Pittsburgh Pirates to serve as their head pitching coach. The Pirates' staff ranked seventh in MLB ERA this year, giving Murphy a chance to lead a pitching staff despite the team's recent struggles.

Q: What's the status of Isaac Paredes' hamstring injury?

A: Paredes is recovering from a hamstring strain that limited him during the latter half of the season. He opted against surgery and has played sparingly since September. As of mid-November, GM Dana Brown estimated Paredes at 65% recovery, with expectations he could reach 8090% by spring training and potentially be ready for Opening Day, though some uncertainty remains.

Q: How will the Astros manage DH and left field with Yordan Alvarez, Jos Altuve, and Paredes?

A: The infield depth may allow Houston to trade surplus players or adjust playing time. Paredes could see a significant share of DH at-bats if Altuve and Alvarez remain in the field regularly. The Astros have already reduced Altuve's second-base workload, and Alvarez rarely plays left field full-time. A potential trade or opening for Paredes could make DH duties a timeshare between Alvarez and Altuve, balancing playing time for the 36-year-old Altuve and outfield-limited Alvarez.

Author: Sophia Brooks