Important dates for Astros fans to know in the 2024-25 MLB offseason
With the World Series complete, the MLB offseason is in full swing. The Houston Astros have a lot to do over the next few months to ensure that they’re able to field a contender in 2025. Though Alex Bregman’s free agency will dominate the Astros’ offseason, there are plenty of other things to keep in mind, too.
The offseason is filled with twists and turns. In addition to free agency, there are trades, the MLB Winter Meetings, Rule 5 Draft, and arbitration hearings. Every item carries some measure of importance, so what are the key dates that all Astros fans should be aware of?
Important dates for Astros fans to know in the 2024-25 MLB offseason
Qualifying offer deadline (November 4)
A qualifying offer essentially works as a one-year contract offer to players entering free agency. If a player accepts the offer, then he’ll receive the mean salary of the top-125 highest-paid players in the league. If the player rejects the offer, then the club receives draft compensation if another team signs him during the offseason. Astros fans should expect Bregman to receive a qualifying offer, and he’ll then have until 3 p.m. CT on November 19 to reject it; which he surely will. This year, it’s around $21 million.
