The Houston Astros are facing challenges in attracting free agents due to their existing core, which is aging and suffering from injuries, particularly in their pitching staff. As offseason approaches, the team may look to strengthen their roster, with Roki Sasaki, a promising Japanese pitcher, potentially available for a contract of up to $7 million. The Astros have made recent roster moves, including signing RHP Hector Neris and sending Seth Martinez to Triple-A, to bolster their pitching options. In minor league action, the Astros' affiliates had mixed results, with notable performances from players like Baez and Swanson. Meanwhile, other teams like the LA Dodgers are also dealing with pitching injuries and are relying on players like Michael Kopech to step up during the postseason. Lastly, the San Francisco Giants are contemplating contract options for veteran Wilmer Flores, who is coming off a disappointing season and a knee injury, leaving his future uncertain.