DONE DEAL: The Houston Astros are very close to signing the elite catcher from the Texas Rangers after reaching an agreement with Yankees for a world-class pitcher. but…

If the Houston Astros went into the 2024 season with what they currently have on their roster, they would no doubt be able to compete for a World Series title.

They’re still in the midst of their dynasty, having made seven consecutive American League Championship Series and are one year removed from winning a championship in 2022.

Signing Josh Hader in free agency is a major boost to their bullpen who was looking at being down four of their relievers from last season.

But, it seems like general manager Dana Brown still has his eye on another addition and could be looking at a starting pitcher.

“I think our bullpen is pretty solid. We may be able to use one more there. But the pitching, if we get a starter, we could put one of the starters in the ‘pen. That would solve that problem,” he told reporters as filmed by Brian McTaggart of MLB.com.

Of the Astros’ current starting pitchers, the two most likely to be moved into a relief role would be J.P. France and Hunter Brown.

Both were called up last season, and relied upon, to be impact players during their rookie years due to injuries to Lance McCullers Jr. and Luis Garcia. Justin Verlander had also departed in free agency, so the rotation was a bit thin.

Brown seems like the one who would get moved to the bullpen. He already was transitioned into a relief role during the playoffs.

Houston’s general manager might be searching for some cheap starting options before the 2024 season begins, but it should also be noted that both McCullers and Garcia will be making their returns this year.

That should boost their rotation.

The Astros still have plenty to be able to compete with anyone in the league, but having their pitching situation figured out would go a long way in ensuring that will happen.