Astros arbitration eligible players: who should stay and who should go

Patrick Creighton of Climbing Tal's Hill evaluates the Houston Astros' roster decisions for their 11 arbitration-eligible players ahead of the offseason. The writer argues that owner Jim Crane must make a decisive choice regarding shortstop Jeremy Pena by either signing him to a long-term extension or trading him. Creighton also advocates extending ace Hunter Brown while regarding Isaac Paredes, Peter Lambert, and Hayden Wesneski as essential roster locks.

Conversely, Creighton suggests non-tendering outfielder Taylor Trammell and exploring trade or non-tender avenues for Jake Meyers. He also recommends exploring trade markets for catcher Yainer Diaz to capitalize on peak value given rising prospects Jason Schiavone and Walker Janek, while retaining Nick Allen, Bennett Sousa, and Ronel Blanco at affordable arbitration rates.