Astros Miss Playoffs; Offseason Moves Loom

The Houston Astros' eight-season playoff streak ended in 2025 after the Cleveland Guardians clinched the final AL wild-card with a late, bases-loaded hit-by-pitch that eliminated Houston, which finished 86-75 despite a 6-1 win over the Angels — the first time the Astros will miss the postseason since 2016. The club's season was marred by injuries and roster departures, and players and manager Joe Espada apologized and vowed to rebuild over the offseason. MLB's regular season has closed and the postseason opens under the 2022-format Wild Card Series (best-of-three hosted by higher seeds), with top division winners advancing directly to the Division Series. Offseason roster movement is already underway league-wide: the New York Mets face major changes with five players expected to depart, stars Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz weighing opt-outs (reports say both could re-sign on restructured deals) while relievers Tyler Rogers and Gregory Soto are expected to remain in bullpen plans. The Astros could also see significant turnover, with names linked to possible moves including Framber Valdez, Craig Kimbrel and Lance McCullers Jr., and the official free-agent market opens five days after the World Series.