The Houston Astros have found it difficult to finalize a trade involving Isaac Paredes ahead of the upcoming season, prompting the organization to explore free agent options to fill a crucial roster gap. The team is reportedly eyeing former Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Michael Conforto as they seek to bolster their lineup with a left-handed bat.
Brian McTaggart, the MLB.com reporter covering the Astros, noted that Houston’s interest in Conforto increased as discussions surrounding Paredes cooled. While the Astros had hoped to move Paredes before Opening Day, they are now focused on adding balance to their offense by targeting a left-handed hitter.
Examining Houston’s Left-Handed Hitting Needs and Incoming Options
Other than star slugger Yordan Alvarez, the Astros’ expected Opening Day roster has limited experience among left-handed hitters. Cesar Salazar, Zach Cole, and recent acquisition Joey Loperfido represent the current left-handed options, but together they have fewer than 500 major league at-bats, highlighting Houston’s vulnerability in this area.
Given this situation, bringing Conforto into the fold could provide some much-needed veteran presence and depth, even if he is not an ideal fix. His recent performance with the Dodgers reflects struggles at the plate, as he posted a .199 batting average with a .305 on-base percentage and just 12 home runs last season, marking his lowest OPS+ at 79.
Michael Conforto’s Career Overview and Recent Performance
Despite a down year, Conforto’s previous two seasons with the San Francisco Giants suggest he still holds offensive value, combining for a .238 average, .322 on-base percentage, and .418 slugging with a 108 OPS+. Across his career, the former All-Star has hit .249/.351/.460 against right-handed pitchers, showing the potential to contribute situationally.
This offseason has seen several veterans, including former Gold Glove winner Nathaniel Lowe and All-Star Santiago Espinal, settle for minor league contracts with spring training invitations after struggling to secure major league deals. Conforto may face a similar path if the Astros are to sign him.
Potential Impact and Future Moves for the Astros
While adding Conforto may not be the marquee signing that Astros fans anticipated, an incentive-based minor league contract could still help address the team’s left-handed hitting deficiency without hampering other roster moves. This strategy could also give Astros General Manager Dana Brown additional flexibility to pursue trade market opportunities that align better with the team’s needs.
With their chances of trading 3B Isaac Paredes diminishing, the Astros have expressed interest in free agent OF Michael Conforto, a source tells MLB. com. A LH hitter, the 32-year-old slashed .199/.305/.333 last year with 12 homers and 36 RBIs in 128 games for the Dodgers.
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) February 18, 2026
