Astros Close To Signing Michael Brantley
6 years agoThe Houston Astros are closing in on free-agent outfielder Michael Brantley, according to sources. Rival executives expect the deal to be for two years and around $32 million. If Houston is unable to trade Josh Reddick, a Brantley addition will make it tougher for outfield prospect Kyle Tucker to make a big impact in his rookie season. Brantley can be used in left field, at designated hitter and at first base, although he's never played first base in the big leagues. The 31-year-old managed to stay healthy for the first time since 2015 when he played in 143 games for Cleveland last year, hitting .309/.364/.468 with 17 home runs, 76 RBI, 89 runs and 12 stolen bases. His injury history makes him a little risky, but Brantley is a very solid player in multiple categories if he stays on the field, and a move to Houston's dangerous lineup makes him more attractive in mixed leagues. Adding first base eligibility would be another plus.
Source: The Athletic - Ken Rosenthal
Source: The Athletic - Ken Rosenthal