Astros Release Nelson Velázquez as Outfielder Eyes Move Overseas

The Houston Astros reportedly released Nelson Velázquez on Tuesday, October 27. The 27-year-old outfielder is reportedly pursuing an opportunity in Asia. He spent the 2026 season between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Astros, who claimed him off waivers in August.

Velázquez struggled to establish himself throughout the season. He finished the season batting .188, with an on-base percentage of .257, a slugging percentage of .406, six home runs, and a strikeout rate over 33%. Overall, it was not a great season for Velázquez.

Despite his low batting average, he was able to hit for power some of the time. For example, facing his former team, the Cubs, on May 29, he hit a three-run homer off Shota Imanaga on the first pitch of his first at-bat as a Cardinal in a 6-5 win.

That said, his offensive inconsistency made it difficult to secure a regular role in the lineup.

Velázquez developed in the Chicago Cubs’ minor league system and was once a promising prospect. He attracted attention because of his power. He made his MLB debut with Chicago, but even then struggled to establish himself. The Cubs traded him during the 2023 season.

He then spent time in St. Louis before making his way to Houston. Now he might be making his way to Asia, where he could have a better chance of translating that minor league power into more consistent production.

Velázquez could continue his professional career in Asia; however, no overseas signing has been confirmed so far. An opportunity overseas could offer him more consistent playing time. Maybe a true change of scenery will be better for the former top prospect.

Houston’s decision to part ways with Velázquez is not entirely unexpected. The Astros may lack some depth in the outfield, but they do have a handful of younger players who could play a larger role in 2027, as well as some trade rumors floating around.

The likely outcome from this situation is developing the younger generation and adding an outside player to the outfield to give them depth. That said, this could also be an opportunity for Yordan Alvarez to get the time he wants in left field and have Carlos Correa as the primary designated hitter, solving the crowded infield problem.

Either way, parting ways with Velázquez was likely the right move. The Astros need to make some space, and parting ways with a player who couldn’t settle in is the right way to go about it. Hopefully, an opportunity overseas will suit Velázquez better.