The Houston Astros have expressed interest in acquiring starting pitcher Blake Snell in free agency, but it seems a contract agreement may not be reached anytime soon.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Astros engaged in discussions this week, exchanging contract proposals with the left-handed pitcher. However, they were hesitant when Snell asked for a two-year guarantee of $60 million, along with an opt-out option at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Nightengale reported that the San Francisco Giants are currently the frontrunners for Snell’s services, but they too are waiting for his contract demands to become more favorable.
Despite the Astros achieving 90 wins and making a postseason appearance in 2023, their journey ended in disappointment with a defeat in the ALCS against the Texas Rangers. Starting pitching emerged as a glaring issue for Houston during the series, with the four pitchers combined allowing 23 runs (22 earned) in 30 innings of play, as per Pro Baseball-Reference.
While Snell would be a valuable addition to the team, his potential contract presents a financial challenge. The Astros are projected to have a luxury payroll of $256.828 million, and signing Snell to a deal exceeding $20 million annually would push them beyond the second tax threshold of $277 million, according to Nightengale.
Despite winning the 2023 National League Cy Young award, Snell, aged 31, remains unsigned in free agency. Concerns surrounding his performance late in games, coupled with his purportedly high salary demands, have deterred potential suitors. Mark Fiensand of MLB.com reported on Jan. 20 that “many believe” Snell was seeking a contract exceeding $200 million.
During his tenure with the San Diego Padres in 2023, Snell boasted a league-leading 2.25 ERA across 32 starts, finishing with a 14-9 record and tallying 234 strikeouts in 180 innings pitched.
However, unless Snell is willing to compromise on his asking price, it’s unlikely he’ll be a regular feature at Minute Maid Park in 2024.
