Houston Astros Preview 2026: Player-by-Player Updates The 2026 Houston Astros season kicks off on Thursday as the team begins its 65th season at Daikin Park, facing the Los Angeles Angels. After six weeks of spring training, the roster is set to take the field, with a mix of returning stars and new additions shaping the lineup. Here’s a breakdown of the key players and their roles for the upcoming campaign. Starting with the position players, the Astros’ offense will rely heavily on their core group, including standout performers from previous seasons. The team’s batting order is expected to feature a blend of power hitters and contact-oriented players, with adjustments made to address weaknesses identified during the off-season. Several key players will be monitored closely, particularly those recovering from injuries, as their availability will impact the team’s depth and strategy. Among the notable players, the injured list (denoted by an asterisk) includes several critical contributors. Their return timeline will be a focal point for the coaching staff, as the Astros aim to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term health considerations. The team’s emphasis on player development will also be tested, with younger prospects potentially stepping into larger roles if key veterans are sidelined. On the pitching staff, the Astros have made strategic moves to bolster their rotation and bullpen. The starting five will include a mix of proven performers and emerging talent, with a focus on durability and adaptability to different matchups. The bullpen, a strength in recent years, will be evaluated for its ability to handle high-leverage situations, particularly in close games.#daikin_park #spring_training #los_angeles_angels #houston_astros #player_development
Mitch Garver wins battle for Mariners' backup catcher job Mitch Garver, who joined the Mariners' camp late in the spring on a minor league deal and as a non-roster invite, has secured the backup catcher position, according to a source close to the club. The decision was finalized after a competitive process against veteran Andrew Knizner, who is expected to be designated for assignment (DFA) to free up a 40-man roster spot. The Mariners will finalize their Opening Day roster no earlier than Wednesday, with the 26-man active roster due by the morning of the regular-season opener on Thursday. Knizner, who signed a one-year, $1 million guaranteed contract on December 16, faces potential complications if DFA’d. With over five years of service time, he could decline an outright assignment to Triple-A Tacoma if cleared through waivers. If claimed by another team, that club would assume his salary. Players with three to five years of service, like Knizner, can avoid the outright, making his potential departure a strategic move for the Mariners. Garver, meanwhile, will earn $2.25 million this season under a split minor league contract. His Major League salary is fully guaranteed if he plays at least one day in 2026. Mariners manager Dan Wilson acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but emphasized the team’s focus on long-term competitiveness. “Garv has had a great camp,” Wilson said, highlighting Garver’s contributions during spring training. Entering his age-35 season with eight-plus years of service, Garver retains the right to decline a minor league assignment if needed. This flexibility could come into play if the Mariners shift toward another backup catcher later in the season.#cal_raleigh #mitch_garver #mariners #andrew_knizner #spring_training
