Locked On Astros

Houston Astros turn the page on 2025 as Joe Espada sets a bold standard for a “reset” focused on durability and accountability. Can the Astros silence doubters predicting an 82-win season? Brett Chancey and Eric Huysman break down Espada’s clubhouse message, the team’s intensified focus on health, and the battle for backup catcher—highlighting César Salazar’s mindset and his experience with the ABS system as MLB rolls out new tech on the field.Key topics include Colton Gordon’s outlook for the pitching staff, Yainer Diaz’s defensive growth, and how the Astros plan to build a functional roster amidst injuries and roster questions. Off the field, chaos strikes the MLBPA as Tony Clark resigns ahead of crucial labor negotiations—is a lockout looming? Get expert insight on the Astros’ path back to October and how league-wide turmoil could impact Houston’s quest for another deep playoff run.If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access

Houston Astros' Yordan Alvarez challenges the offseason debate—will he be the team's primary designated hitter, or does his passion for playing left field tip the scales? Joe Espada clarifies Alvarez’s role, opening the door for strategic lineup rotations as the roster battles a tight logjam. Is Alvarez’s health and versatility the Astros’ secret weapon, or will concerns over his knees push him toward DH duty?Hosts Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey highlight Lance McCullers Jr.'s candid outlook on his potential final season in Houston, raising questions about his future and the Astros' pitching depth. The episode spotlights Cavan Biggio’s arrival, the infield competition, and how defensive metrics impact lineup decisions. Key conversations center on roster flexibility, spring training intrigue, and the evolving landscape as Houston eyes another playoff run. Can the Astros maximize their talent and keep their stars engaged on the field?Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Jo

Houston Astros reshape their roster as Joey Loperfido returns and the infield logjam intensifies. With Jose Altuve and Jeremy Peña pushing for everyday roles, and Carlos Correa addressing the challenges of playing time, the Astros face tough choices that will echo into 2026. Can Dana Brown’s focus on left-handed bats and player versatility create a deeper playoff push—or spark clubhouse tension?Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey break down the latest Astros trades, analyze Joey Loperfido’s upside and roster flexibility, and explore whether prospects like Cam Smith or Jake Myers will seize new opportunities. The hosts assess Altuve’s position battle, Peña’s durability goals, and Isak Paredes’ uncertain future. Don't miss this expert look at Houston's evolving roster strategy, key player mindsets, and what could be the next blockbuster move for the Astros’ championship window.Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access

Christian Walker refuses to back down from the Houston Astros’ crowded infield battle, declaring his intent to seize the everyday first base job. With trade rumors swirling around both Walker and Isak Paredes, fans are left wondering: Who will secure a starting role, and could a major move still be on the horizon? Eric Huysman shares insider details from spring training, evaluating Walker’s offseason transformation and the high-stakes competition for infield playing time.Astros GM Dana Brown’s latest comments spark speculation about pending trades and lineup puzzles, while the team’s backup catcher situation raises eyebrows. The episode also tackles MLB labor tensions, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ headline-grabbing payroll, and the ripple effects of Nick Castellanos’ controversial clubhouse antics. Can Joe Espada solve the Astros’ “good problem” before the season starts, or will a bold trade reshape Houston’s World Series hopes?Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Bret

Brett Chancey talks about the buzz coming out of Spring Training this afternoon, and the buzz about Imai is real. Hunter Brown is your ace!Join the Everydayer Club lockedonastros.supercast.comLocked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey. As part of the Locked On Podcast Network, we bring you the latest Astros news, in-depth game analysis, player updates, and exclusive insights — every single weekday.Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, stay connected with everything happening in Astros baseball. Tune in on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, never to miss an episode.00:00 Astros Injuries: No Major Concerns06:56 Josh Hader: Strategic Use Discussed08:46 Astros Trade Rumors & Lineup13:46 College Classic & Hunter Brown Insights17:36 Focused Fundamentals for Baseball Success18:50 Orioles Spend Big for AL East23:03 "AOS Preview & Mariners Chat"28:22 "Outside Looking In" Debate29:52 "Locked On Astros Previe

Houston Astros face projected win total "disrespect" as spring training launches, sparking debates about their reworked rotation and postseason hopes. With Justin Verlander signing a surprising deal with the Detroit Tigers, fans wonder: Who will anchor Houston’s staff and can new arms like Shota Imai and Mike Burrows step up?Brett Chancey and Eric Huysman break down the latest roster changes, buzz around spring training hats, and speculation on rotation strength without Framber Valdez. They explore Lance McCullers’ comeback prospects, Spencer Arrighetti’s upside, and the Astros’ path amid rising AL West competition. Plus, insight into Verlander’s return to Detroit, the Tigers’ revamped rotation, and how José Altuve’s future may impact Houston’s offensive firepower. Can the Astros silence doubters, or are they primed for a step back in the win column? Don’t miss this lively look at what’s next for the reigning powerhouse.

Spring Training is here, and the Astros rumor mill is heating up!In today’s episode of Locked On Astros, we break down the latest on Josh Hader’s throwing progression, whether there’s any real concern about a delayed start, and what it could mean for Houston’s bullpen as pitchers and catchers report.We also dive deep into the Astros’ ongoing trade conversations, including renewed talks involving Isaac Paredes, why the Red Sox may be out, how the Pirates still fit into the picture, and why Brendan Donovan has been on Houston’s radar since last summer as a potential lineup-balancing left-handed bat.Finally, we tackle the backup catcher question—is Joey Bart the answer via trade, or do internal options like Cesar Salazar or Carlos Pérez make more sense? We compare the stats, defensive value, and upside to see who could realistically back up Yainer Díaz in 2026.

In this episode, Brett breaks down the Astros pitchers most likely to be impact contributors in 2026, separating hype from reality and projection from actual opportunity. From Ethan Pecko’s rise as a legitimate mid-rotation option, to AJ Blubaugh’s growing importance as a multi-inning bullpen weapon, to Alonzo Tredwell’s high-variance upside, we explain how each arm fits into Houston’s plans — and why they matter beyond the box score.We also dig into:Who is most likely to break camp vs debut midseasonWhich pitchers project as rotation pieces vs bullpen solutionsHow this internal depth changes Houston’s trade deadline strategyWhy the Astros may not need to overpay for pitching help in JulyThis is a realistic, front-office-minded look at how the Astros are building their next competitive window — and why pitching development could be the difference between contention and desperation in 2026.Houston Astros’ young arms are making waves in spring training, positioning themselves as key players for the team’s 2026

This episode breaks down the latest Astros roster moves and offseason storylines as Spring Training inches closer. We’ll discuss J.P. France clearing waivers and being outrighted to Triple-A — but still invited to major league camp — and go through the full list of 2026 non-roster invitees expected to compete for spots. We’ll also unpack Yainer Díaz winning his arbitration case, what that means for the club’s payroll and catcher depth, and dive into broader arbitration news from around MLB with Tarik Skubal’s precedent-setting case. Plus, we’ll touch on Buster Olney’s Red Sox trade chatter and how Houston could match up in a crowded AL playoff picture.Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey. As part of the Locked On Podcast Network, we bring you the latest Astros news, in-depth game analysis, player updates, and exclusive insights — every single weekday.Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, stay connected with everything happening in Astros

Brett Chancey talks about Balancing the bats, juggling this lineup, and who they could possibly get to help this lineup.Houston plans to bring both Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes to camp, but the math doesn’t cleanly add up. We break down Dana Brown’s recent comments, Joe Espada’s lineup vision, and why the search for a left-handed bat keeps resurfacing in every conversation.In this episode, we examine how the Walker-Paredes logjam impacts playing time for Jose Altuve and Yordan Alvarez, why the DH spot isn’t as flexible as the front office suggests, and how Altuve’s offensive approach could be the key to a 2026 bounce-back season.Plus, we shift to the outfield, where Cam Smith’s potential move to center field, ongoing trade chatter around Jake Meyers and Jesús Sánchez, and Houston’s lack of left-handed balance all point toward a move that may be inevitable. Depth is a luxury — until it forces hard decisions.Locked On Astros gives you the context, the quotes, and the reality behind Houston’s roster constr

Houston Astros secure key infielder Isak Paredes, sidestepping arbitration with a strategic one-year, $9.35 million deal—and a club option that could become mutual if Paredes cracks the top 10 in MVP voting. With roster clarity taking shape ahead of spring training, questions swirl: how will the Astros juggle infield playing time between Paredes, Christian Walker, and others? Is Jose Altuve set for a position shift, and what does this mean for Yordan Alvarez and the DH slot?Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey dig into Houston’s offseason priorities, including their aggressive pursuit of a left-handed bat to balance the right-heavy lineup, possible trade targets like Brendan Donovan, and the clubhouse reaction to the new “Chase the Fight” slogan. The hosts debate the future of Lance McCullers Jr., outfield roles for Cam Smith, and whether GM Dana Brown’s bold strategies are enough for the Astros to reclaim AL West dominance.

AL West rivals heat up as the Seattle Mariners land Brendan Donovan, raising the pressure on the Houston Astros’ quest to reclaim the division crown. With Donovan possibly anchoring second base and leading off for a revamped Mariners lineup, Eric Huysman questions whether the Astros’ off-season pitching moves and lineup tweaks are enough to keep pace—or if health and roster depth still pose the biggest test.Eric Huysman breaks down Astros rotation battles featuring Hunter Brown, Christian Javier, Mike Burrows, and Lance McCullers Jr. while spotlighting potential regression and the need for supplemental arms like Ryan Weiss and AJ Blubaugh. Key talking points include the impact of losing Framber Valdez, the fan-favorite Isaac Paredes trade dilemma, and FanGraphs’ projections giving the Astros just a 21% chance to win the AL West. Are the Mariners now the team to beat, or can the Astros defy the odds and return to dominance?Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett

Houston Astros face a roster conundrum as bullpen battles heat up and Isac Paredes’ future hangs in the balance. Can new arm Kai-Wei Teng crack the bullpen, or will the influx of seven new pitchers shake up Opening Day plans? Brett Chancey and Eric Huysman break down the effects of trades, JP France’s departure, and how Nate Pearson, AJ Blubaugh, and other newcomers fit into a crowded relief corps.Astros’ lineup questions take center stage amid rising trade speculation for Paredes, especially after Eugenio Suarez’s move to Cincinnati shifts the third base market. Will Jose Altuve see time in left field to keep Paredes’ bat in the lineup? Can Christian Walker, Cam Smith, or Jesús Sánchez be leveraged for roster balance? The hosts debate Dana Brown’s challenges and the moves needed to keep Houston in championship contention. Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey. As part of the Locked On Podcast Network, we bring you the latest Astros news, in-depth game

Houston Astros shake up their pitching roster with a bold trade for Kai-Wei Teng, sparking questions about the future of their rotation and bullpen depth. Will Teng’s elite spin rate and sweeper become secret weapons in Houston’s quest for dominance, or will his past struggles haunt the team’s playoff hopes? J.P. France faces a DFA after a promising rookie season, underscoring the tough decisions GM Dana Brown must make to secure the club’s success.Eric Huysman examines the impact of losing prospect Jancel Villa Real and how Teng fits into an increasingly competitive Astros roster. With the infield and catching situation tightening—can Yainer Diaz and César Salazar fight off outside free agent interest like Christian Vázquez? Key discussion points include Chandler Rome’s projected Opening Day lineup, the implications for Esak Paredes, and why the Astros are prioritizing flexibility over splashy signings. Don’t miss this compelling look at Houston’s evolving roster strategy.Locked On Astros is your daily Houst

Houston Astros face fierce roster battles as Cam Smith and Jesus Sanchez vie for the critical right field slot. Could sophomore Smith’s defensive prowess outshine Sanchez’s power and experience? The spring training spotlight intensifies—with Dana Brown keeping roster spots up for grabs—challenging these outfielders to step up in the chase for consistency and left-handed pop. Who has the edge as opening night approaches?Brett Chancey covers the Astros’ evolving outfield, insurance quandaries sidelining Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa from the World Baseball Classic, and fresh trade rumors with the Red Sox swirling around Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu. Insights include the impact of the new August 3rd trade deadline and how spring training competition and potential deals could define Houston’s championship ambitions. Is a blockbuster move looming as the countdown to the season begins? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for ad

Houston Astros face a roster logjam as Joe Espada reveals creative plans for lineup flexibility, spotlighting stars like Jose Altuve, Yordan Alvarez, Carlos Correa, and recent additions Isak Paredes and Christian Walker. Can the Astros find enough playing time for their overloaded infield and shuffle key players across positions? Injury concerns linger, but fresh leadership and revamped training staff offer renewed optimism for the season.Hosts Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey dissect Dana Brown’s trade hints and the urgent search for a left-handed bat and arm to balance Houston’s right-heavy lineup. The conversation covers FanFest buzz, Altuve’s potential return to the World Baseball Classic, and the impact of offseason moves on the AL West race against rivals like the Rangers and Mariners. Has Carlos Correa’s leadership reignited Houston’s championship culture? Stay tuned for candid analysis and insider updates as the Astros prepare for spring training.We also break down:Why the Astros still need a left-hande

Houston Astros face swirling trade rumors as fans speculate on potential moves involving Isaac Paredes and Christian Walker. Does their absence from FanFest signal a blockbuster deal in the works, or is it just a coincidence? Brett Chancey and Eric Huysman cut through the noise, exploring the realities behind trade season, analyzing why fans are obsessed with certain players’ futures, and uncovering the implications of the McKenzie Gore deal for Houston’s pitching depth.Key topics include mock trade packages, Jeremy Peña’s long-term status, and how recent roster updates could impact playing time as spring training approaches. The hosts also highlight Yordan Alvarez and Hunter Brown’s MLB Top 40 recognition, question the Astros’ strategy for navigating AL West competition after the Rangers’ surprise Gore acquisition, and invite listeners to share their boldest trade ideas. Will Houston make the big move fans crave, or are the dots just not connecting this offseason?Are the Astros gearing up for a major move, o

Big news across Astros baseball as Ryan Pressly officially retires after a legendary career and immediately takes on a new role in player development with the Minnesota Twins. We break down Pressly’s incredible Astros legacy, from his regular-season dominance to his postseason brilliance, including his historic 2022 playoff run that helped deliver a World Series title. Plus, we dive into the latest Astros news and notes as trade rumors continue to swirl, including potential infield movement, growing interest around Paredes, Jake Meyers remaining on the block, Red Sox outfield targets, and Houston’s search for a backup catcher. To close the show, we react to Carlos Beltrán being elected to the MLB Hall of Fame, his unforgettable 2004 run with the Astros, what his induction means for players connected to the sign-stealing era, and how this could shape the Hall of Fame future for Astros stars like José Altuve.Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey. As part

The Houston Astros offseason buzz is heating up

Houston Astros gear up for an intense American League battle, facing heightened competition from teams like the Seattle Mariners and Boston Red Sox. Can the Astros’ revamped pitching staff—featuring new additions like Tasuya Imai, Nate Pearson, and Mike Burrows—provide enough upside to reclaim AL West supremacy? With stars like Yordan Alvarez and Jose Altuve anchoring the lineup, the Astros’ championship pedigree is put to the test as questions swirl around rotation depth and the lack of a starting lefty.Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey break down the infield drama surrounding Isaac Paredes and Christian Walker. Insights cover recent roster moves, arbitration challenges, and the potential impact of Cam Smith’s development. Guest Cody offers an analytical perspective on lineup construction and the Astros’ path to postseason success. Will Houston’s pitching and strategic trades keep them atop the American League?