The Houston Astros have bolstered their starting rotation by signing free agent right-hander Ryan Weiss, who starred in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO). This move comes as the team braces for the loss of free-agent Framber Valdez and deals with multiple starters recovering from injuries or surgeries. Weiss, turning 29, posted a 3.16 ERA across 46 starts for the KBO's Hanwha Eagles, showcasing his potential as a high-upside, low-risk signing. This contract, with a club option for 2027, guarantees $2.6 million in 2026 and could earn him over $7 million through 2027. The Astros' financial prudence, aiming to avoid the luxury tax, has led to strategic signings like former top Toronto Blue Jays prospect Nate Pearson, who will be converted to a starting pitcher. The team's best avenue for acquiring established starting pitchers is via trade, with center fielder Jake Meyers and right fielder Jesús Sánchez generating interest, despite Sánchez's poor performance post-trade deadline. Infielder Isaac Paredes is a valuable trade chip, but general manager Dana Brown is hesitant to part with him, valuing his contributions to the lineup. The Astros' pitching staff faces challenges with Valdez's departure and the August trade of Ryan Gusto, leaving Hunter Brown as the only returning pitcher with over 86 innings pitched last season. Adding volume and strikeout ability, like Weiss's 178 2/3 innings and 207 strikeouts for Hanwha, is crucial for the team's success in 2025.
