Houston Astros Stars Demands, But They Are Balking… For Now…

Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports that pitcher Blake Snell, a free agent, has communicated his requests to the Houston Astros, who are reportedly refusing to comply.

The rumors that free agent Blake Snell might sign a deal with the Houston Astros this week have been very strong.

Snell is still available, and the Astros could use him right now because their rotation is beset with injuries.

But as has been the case throughout the summer, teams are refusing to pay Snell’s asking fee.

The San Francisco Giants are also in the Snell sweepstakes, along with the Astros, and they just witnessed him pitch a mock game in the Seattle region.

In addition to losing Jose Urquidy to an elbow injury a few days ago, Houston is also dealing with long-term ailments to Lance McCullers and Luis Garcia. Justin Verlander will not be available for Opening Day.

The Astros, who have advanced to the World Series in two of the previous three years, have obviously made a significant investment in returning there after inking Josh Hader to a big contract this offseason.

However, it seems that the teams’ game of chicken with Snell is going to continue.

Snell is coming off a season in which he pitched for the San Diego Padres, going 14-9 with a 2.25 ERA.

After winning the AL Cy Young Award in 2018 while playing for the Tampa Bay Rays, he was awarded his second Cy Young Award.