The Houston Astros have lost at least 100 games in three consecutive seasons, but player interest doesn't reflect their recent struggles.
Agents are aware that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and there is an attractiveness. A player can jump on board with a prominent role and hope for success over the long-term.
"It's a double-edged sword," Jeff Luhnow said. "Someone looking to win a World Series title next year may not think about the Astros as the first place to go sign. But having said that, we also have an opportunity. Jose Veras signed with us (last year) because he could be the closer. As of right now, we're going into next year with that role in competition. There's a lot of other clubs that don't have that. You can be a starter in our rotation, potentially be an everyday outfielder on our club. You can be the guy.
"We play indoors. We play in a controlled environment where you know you're going to play every night. It's in the middle of the country. There are no state taxes. There's a lot of attractive reasons."