The Astros Face Tough Arbitration Decisions Ahead of 2027

The Astros have some big decisions to make this offseason, and free agency isn’t the only thing they have to worry about. Several players are heading into salary arbitration.

With the team already looking to make changes ahead of 2027, those decisions could have a significant impact on its offseason plans.

Salary arbitration allows eligible players and their teams to negotiate a salary without the player entering free agency. Players generally become eligible after three years in the majors.

The Astros have 11 players eligible for arbitration for 2027. Here is a look at their projected salaries.

A few names stand out, for one, Hunter Brown. Brown had a 3.19 ERA over 107.1 innings in 20 starts, but he went from being the ace to a pitcher unable to make it out of the first inning of their elimination game. Because of his decline, his salary will likely not jump too high in order for the Astros to hold on to him.

Then there is Peter Lambert, who became the Astros’ top starter when they needed him most. Through all the ups and downs, Lambert has been their rock. He is definitely an arm they will want to hold on to. Even with Lambert, the Astros still need to add at least one solid starter for 2027.

Wesneski is also a pitcher who rose to the occasion, going 6-2 with a 3.25 ERA in 11 starts. Keeping him would be one less gap to fill in their rotation.

Then there are two top players, Isaac Paredes and Jeremy Peña.

These are two players who would hurt to lose; that being said, they are navigating a crowded infield heading into 2027. While losing Paredes would solve the overcrowding, he is a young player with so much potential and has value at the plate. The Astros hold a $13.35 million club option on Paredes for 2027.

Like everything, these decisions will come down to money. These high-value players come with a high cost. It will be interesting to see what they decide to do with some of these players, but either way, it is definitely something to watch as the November 20 tender deadline approaches.