Astros make more moves

Before the addition of Cam Smith this offseason, the Astros had one of the worst farm systems in the major league. With Smith, Brice Matthews and Walker Janek they moved up to 19th in this year’s rankings. 

Astros sign 20 international players

However the 2022 World Series Champions continue to add more young players to help replenishing their thin farm system. The Astros signed 20 International free agents. During the International signing period Houston signed eight players from Venezuela and six from the Dominican republic. They also signed four players from Mexico, and one from Colombia. 

Most notably, they signed Cuban outfielder Kevin Alvarez. The Matanzas, Cuba native, is ranked seventh by MLB Pipeline among international signees. Zo and Cantu preview a video of Alvarez’s swing. They also share what scouts are raving about the left-handed outfielder. 

Wagner Hall of Fame

The boys give the most recent update of Billy Wagner’s Hall of Fame status. Ichiro Suzuki continues his route to a unanimous bid. CC Sabathia, Wagner, and Carlos Beltran are making a strong push to join Suzuki in Cooperstown, N.Y. 

Last year Wagner was five votes shy of immorality. However with 138 total public and anonymous votes, the 1999 Rolaids Relief Man Award winner sits at 84.7%

Cantu and Zo also discuss the latest of free agent Alex Bregman, and other notable free agents. With Santander willing to take a shorter deal, the boys discuss the Astros chances of signing the Margarita, Venezuela native. 

Around the Horn

Tune to hear the exciting debate between the Full Seam Ahead host as they discuss what’s next for the Astros outfield. A lot of names are mentioned and you can decide who you agree with. 

Lastly, the boys give you the latest from around the horn, including the tragic death of Bob Uecker and Martin Maldonado’s new team. 

You can find the Full Seam Ahead podcast on Spotify and Youtube