As the 2026 season approaches, it’s a good time to take a look at who the Astros have in their back pocket. With a flashy new pitcher and several other additions, the team may have some young talent, but who are the veterans with experience who can reliably step up?
Jose Altuve is the ultimate veteran for the Houston Astros, but he’s not alone. Veteran players like Altuve and Correa provide stability at key positions and have experience in high-pressure situations, which could be crucial for the team’s consistency in 2026. Here’s a look at the players in their 30s who bring experience and talent to the field.
Astros Veteran Players to Watch in 2026:
Jose Altuve (2B / LF) – 35
Strong at turning double plays and covering second. Solid contact hitter with speed. Under contract through 2026.
Carlos Correa (SS) – 31
Excellent defender with a strong arm. Provides power and run production. Under contract through 2026.
Christian Walker (1B) – 34
Reliable at first base. Hits for power and drives in runs. One-year deal for 2026.
Josh Hader (RP) – 31
Elite closer with strikeouts in high-pressure innings. Under contract through 2026.
Lance McCullers Jr. (SP) – 32
Durable starter with strikeouts and control. Under contract through 2026.
J.P. France (SP) – 30
Consistent starter with good control and strikeout ability. Under contract through 2026.
Steven Okert (RP) – 34
Left-handed reliever effective against left-handed hitters. Under contract through 2026.
Ronel Blanco (RP) – 32
High-leverage reliever with strikeout ability. Under contract through 2026.
Bennett Sousa (RP) – 30
Contributes in middle and late innings with strikeouts and solid command. Under contract through 2026.
Enyel De Los Santos (SP) – 30
Rotation depth with strong strikeout ability. One-year deal for 2026.
Jason Alexander (RP) – 32
Reliable reliever in key innings. Under contract through 2026.
Between the veterans and other experienced players, the Astros have a solid foundation. With veterans, emerging talent, and new coaches bringing in different philosophies, the team has the tools to be competitive.
The key will be using all of these assets effectively and building chemistry between players and the coaching staff. Despite struggles last season and a slow offseason, the Astros are in a position to build a strong, consistent team.