Houston Astros rivalry with the New York Yankees would grow even bigger, As Yankee Top Choose Astros As His major landing spot

The Houston Astros’ pitching rotation has already suffered significant setbacks this season due to injuries. Looking ahead to the offseason, they face the potential loss of key players.

Yusei Kikuchi, acquired at the trade deadline, will become a free agent, as will Justin Verlander. With several important decisions to make regarding free agents, the Astros are in a challenging situation.

If they can retain Kikuchi on a favorable deal and offer Verlander a one- or two-year contract that isn’t too costly, they might be able to secure another top-tier pitcher.

 

 

The free-agent market will have many options, and while Houston hasn’t historically been a major destination for free agents due to their strong core group, this could change this winter.

One notable pitcher who could become available is Gerrit Cole, who previously had a standout stint with the Astros. Cole, now with the rival New York Yankees, has an opt-out clause in his contract this offseason.

Cole’s situation is unique. The Yankees could exercise a club option to extend his contract by another year with an increased salary. However, if the Yankees decide to focus on keeping Juan Soto, Cole might become too costly. In that case, he would be on the lookout for a new team, and a return to Houston could be a fitting option.

Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report even ranked the Astros as the No. 3 potential destination for Cole.

“Who’s up for a reunion? Gerrit Cole had an outstanding two-year period with the Astros in 2018-19, making 65 regular-season starts with a 2.68 ERA and seven postseason starts with a 2.17 ERA. He was incredibly dominant, narrowly missing out on the Triple Crown in 2019 due to Justin Verlander’s 21-win season. His success with Houston led to his lucrative deal with the Yankees.”

Cole could potentially become Houston’s ace once again, giving them an edge in matchups against the Yankees.

Although he would come at a high cost, the Astros are well aware of his value. Cole had a 2.63 ERA last year and won his second Cy Young Award. Despite dealing with some injuries in 2024, he has a 3.86 ERA and 69 strikeouts in 63 innings pitched. While not as dominant as before, he remains an elite pitcher.