Astros Crawfish Boil: February 2, 2016

Astros News

Winter Report Card: Astros improve but need more to stay contenders | SI.com
The Astros made some moves to improve last year's surprise playoff team, including a big trade for Ken Giles, but Houston shouldn't call it an off-season quite yet.

Francis Martes motivated to prove he belongs with Astros - Houston Chronicle
While hard-throwing righthander Francis Martes continued his sprint up the Astros' farm system, he paid close attention last year to the big league club's willingness to promote young prospects like Lance McCullers, Michael Feliz and Vince Velasquez straight from Class AA Corpus Christi.

Astros announcer talks preciousness of time at monthly Men’s Power Lunch - Your Houston News: News
Bill Brown had something to remind everyone: No one lives forever; make the best out of the time they’ve got.

Projecting the Houston Astros Outfield - Houston - Scout
The Houston Astros appear to have a solid group of outfielders for 2016, but just how good could this quartet be?

MLB News

It's time the Red Sox ditch Yawkey Way and honor David Ortiz instead - Over the Monster
It's David Ortiz's last season, and it's time to fix a mistake of the past.

The Yankees spent a lot of money to win in 2016 - SBNation.com
They just did it two years ago. And they didn't need to do it again.

The Yankees are the only team that hasn't signed a free agent - SBNation.com
Monday's Say Hey, Baseball includes the Yankees' offseason, Garth Brooks' allegiances and the top 100 prospects.

So far, Dodgers infield buying into timeshare, versatiliity - True Blue LA
The signing of Howie Kendrick means several Dodgers will have to fight for playing time, but so far the team seems on board with the plan in manager Dave Roberts' first season.

Who are the best remaining free agents following the Howie Kendrick deal? - MLB Daily Dish
Meet some of the best players still on the market.