The Houston Astros were said to be one of several teams in contention to sign slugger Nelson Cruz this offseason. It seemed it came down to the Astros, Rays, and Twins. Ultimately, it was announced on Thursday that Cruz would be signing a one year deal to take his bat to Minnesota.
The Astros didn’t necessarily need to add Cruz to their already potent lineup that features studs like Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, George Springer, Carlos Correa, and Michael Brantley. He would have been a luxury add in a spot that could use an upgrade but doesn’t necessarily need one since Tyler White is slated to man the designated hitter role.