With the MLB trade deadline approaching, much of the attention around the Houston Astros has centered on potential blockbuster additions as the team holds a slim division lead.
But while the front office searches for impact pieces, the Astros have made a quieter roster addition by snapping up a familiar face with an impressive career pedigree, shortly after he left the Milwaukee Brewers organization
Houston Astros Reunite With Veteran Shortstop After Milwaukee Brewers Stint
This week, the Astros signed free agent shortstop Braden Shewmake to a minor league contract, according to the official transaction log.
The signing comes shortly after the infielder was designated for assignment by the Brewers and opted to become a free agent as a result. But Shewmake has had a whirlwind season as he searched for a lasting home, and this will be his second run with the Astros this year.
“It’ll be Shewmake’s second stint with Houston this season,” Steve Adams wrote for MLB Trade Rumors. “The former (Atlanta) Braves first-rounder appeared in 30 games with Houston and tallied 83 plate appearances, slashing .256/.272/.423 with three homers. He went 2-for-7 in four games with the Brewers before being cut loose.”
The timing of the move gives Houston additional infield depth just days before the trade deadline, when roster flexibility becomes especially valuable for contenders.
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Although Shewmake’s offensive numbers at the major league level have been modest overall, his defensive versatility made him useful during Houston’s injury issues earlier this season.
“Shewmake is a glove-first shortstop who’s capable of playing all over the infield,” Adams added. “He picked up some work at second base, third base and shortstop while the ‘Stros dealt with injuries to Jeremy Peña and Carlos Correa. In parts of three big league seasons, he’s totaled 165 plate appearances and recorded a .196/.206/.320 slash.”
Houston has assigned Shewmake to Triple-A Sugar Land, where he’ll provide experienced infield insurance if additional injuries arise or another opportunity opens later this season. The former Texas A&M standout also returns to his home state via the move, adding another familiar element to his latest stint with the Astros organization.
While Houston could still pursue bigger transactions before the deadline passes, the reunion with Shewmake reflects the type of under-the-radar move that contenders often make to ensure they’re covered throughout the remainder of the regular season.