The Houston Astros are navigating a period of significant change, marked by coaching staff departures and potential player contract extensions [5]. As the team looks to rebound from a disappointing season, several key storylines are developing that will shape the Astros' future [1].
Coaching Staff Exodus
The Astros' coaching staff is undergoing a significant overhaul [5]. Longtime pitching coach Bill Murphy is leaving the organization to join the Pittsburgh Pirates [3]. Murphy had been with the Astros in some capacity since 2016, helping develop pitchers [3]. His departure adds to the list of coaching changes the Astros have experienced recently [5]. The 2025 season had multiple causes for the Astros going south [7]. The Mets are hiring Troy Snitker as their new hitting coach as they build towards 2026 [10].Potential Valdez Extension and Trade Speculation
Framber Valdez, a co-ace for the Astros, is projected to sign a blockbuster six-year, $190 million contract [1]. This potential extension would keep a key player in Houston for the long term [1]. Meanwhile, there is speculation that the Milwaukee Brewers could trade their ace, Freddy Peralta, to the Astros [12]. Peralta is entering the final year of his contract, and a trade could benefit both teams [12].TL;DR
- Longtime Astros pitching coach Bill Murphy is departing for a position with the Pittsburgh Pirates [3].
- Ace pitcher Framber Valdez is projected to sign a six-year, $190 million contract extension with the Astros [1].
- The Milwaukee Brewers may trade their ace, Freddy Peralta, to the Astros [12].
- Former Astros hitting coach poised to get ultimate revenge after being scapegoated [7].