3 Astros free agents who won’t be back next season and why
By Tim Boyle
2) Astros trade deadline addition Trey Mancini will opt out
Since the Astros acquired Trey Mancini, he hasn’t taken over the city of Houston. He has been slow to start and looks more like depth than anything else. He’s not yet at the point of his career where he would need to be in a platoon. Mancini’s strong track record after returning from the cancer that held him out of the 2020 season should have plenty of teams interested in his right-handed stick still capable of popping home runs.
Because Mancini isn’t just a first baseman and can offer his services as a corner outfielder, he shouldn’t get stuck without a contract once free agency hits. His contract, which includes a mutual option, wouldn’t be the worst thing for the Astros to pick up and Mancini agree to move forward with. There will be space available for him.
Mancini was expected to opt out of his deal with the Baltimore Orioles which is one of the major reasons why he’s with the Astros right now. Something could change. Landing in a winning atmosphere definitely helps.
Maybe a little too romantic, Mancini could become a free agent and return to the Orioles. They are on the rise and bringing back a beloved player like him could provide a spark.
Whatever happens for Mancini, an underwhelming start to his time in Houston plus other options being out there should have Houston looking elsewhere.