The Houston Astros may seek ways to shed some payroll before Opening Day, according to a report.
\"Throughout the winter, multiple team sources have maintained owner Jim Crane is wary of exceeding the luxury tax for a second consecutive season,\" writes Chandler Rome of The Athletic.
\"After signing Christian Walker last month, outside approximations have Houston either right at or a smidge over the first $241 million threshold,\" Rome continued. \"More clarity will arrive after Thursday\'s deadline to exchange salary figures with the Astros\' eight arbitration-eligible players.\"
The Astros are coming off a 2024 season in which they paid a Competitive Balance Tax bill for the first time under Crane.