The Houston Astros found themselves at the center of one of the most dramatic free agencies that's been seen in a very long time this offseason.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla — Nothing signals the start of a spring training schedule like a split-squad. The Houston Astros will open Grapefruit League play with one on Saturday morning, when one team will host the Washington Nationals at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches and another will travel to Port St. Lucie to face the New York Mets.

The Astros have more competition for roster spots this spring than in any season in the past decade. That’s not surprising news considering they have played in more postseason games (99) than any othe

For Houston Astros pitcher Ryan Gusto, last season was a dream and a disappontment all rolled into one. On Sept. 29, the Astros called him up from Triple-A Sugar Land. It was a reward for his best season as a pro player.

Travis Scott had an eventful Sunday in sunny Florida, where he was not only the one to throw the ceremonial first pitch for the Houston Astros at the team’s spring training opener, but was also the face of a bobblehead created in his likeness for the occasion.

With spring training games now underway, here are five Houston Astros hitters and pitchers to watch during Grapefruit League games.

After the Houston Astros held a defensive session practicing cut-offs and relay throws on a back field at their spring training complex Friday morning, Jose Altuve walked to the dugout with the position group he has occupied early in camp.

The Houston Astros' first full squad workout at spring training in West Palm Beach, Fla. is officially scheduled for Tuesday, but most of the team is already there today as the ballclub prepares for a season of change. Those changes include no Kyle Tucker, no Alex Bregman, and Jose Altuve possibly being the team’s next starting left fielder.