The Houston Astros are reportedly the favorites to sign Cuban outfielder Kevin Alvarez in 2025, per Francys Romero of Béisbol FR. The 2024 signing period will open Jan. 15, 2025, when the Astros are expected to spend roughly $2 million of their international signing pool on Alvarez.
“(Alvarez is) considered one of the best hitters in his class,” Romero said.
At age-15 in December 2021, Alvarez left Cuba with his father, settling in the Dominican Republic. Joining the Javier Rodriguez Baseball Academy, the Cuban-born prospect picked up first base as secondary position. The lefty’s likely addition in roughly 22 months furthers Houston’s control of the Cuban market.
Astros Assign Gage No. 92
The Astros claimed Matt Gage from the Toronto Blue Jays last month, agreeing to a signing bonus to keep Gage from declining the release waiver claim. Gage, a 30-year-old left-handed reliever, made his Major League debut in 2022, appearing in 11 games for Toronto.
Gage still holds prospect status, following seven minor-league seasons. Houston assigned him No. 92 on the 40-man roster, making him the first Astros player to don the number. Only four other players wore a number greater than 90 in Astros history.
Astros’ Guerrero Retires
Astros left-handed pitching prospect Geremy Guerrero voluntarily retired in February. The Indiana State product signed a minor-league contract with Houston on May 19, 2022, but never made an appearance in the Florida Complex League.
