The Houston Astros signed infielder Cavan Biggio to a minor league contract on Sunday, adding a versatile left-handed bat to their spring training roster. Biggio, son of Astros Hall of Famer Craig Biggio, reported to camp in West Palm Beach, Florida, for a physical. Meanwhile, third baseman Isaac Paredes arrived at camp despite ongoing trade rumors.
In a nod to franchise history, the Astros agreed to a minor league deal with Cavan Biggio, whose father Craig played his entire 20-year career with Houston from 1988 to 2007. Craig Biggio holds Astros records for games played, at-bats, hits, runs, total bases, doubles, and extra-base hits. Cavan, who turns 31 in April, has played in 561 major league games, primarily with the Toronto Blue Jays from 2019 to 2024, and briefly with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and Kansas City Royals in 2024. Last season, he hit .174/.296/.246 with one home run in 83 plate appearances for the Royals. Over his career, Biggio has a .223/.339/.373 slash line, 52 home runs, and 33 stolen bases. He has defensive experience at every position except pitcher and catcher.
Astros manager Joe Espada praised the signing, saying, “Love the bat. Lefty bat, can play multiple positions. Professional approach from the left side, gets on base. … I’m looking forward to having him here and giving him opportunities to make the club.” Biggio will compete for a bench spot after reporting for a physical on Sunday and working out Monday.
On the same day, Isaac Paredes reported to Astros camp, surprising some amid trade speculation. Acquired from the Chicago Cubs in December 2024 as part of the Kyle Tucker trade, Paredes has been linked to deals due to Houston's crowded infield, featuring Carlos Correa at third base, Jose Altuve at second, Jeremy Peña at shortstop, and Christian Walker at first. The 26-year-old, turning 27 on Wednesday, is a two-time American League All-Star earning $9.35 million this year with a 2027 club option for $13.35 million.
Last season, Paredes slashed .259/.359/.470 with 19 home runs and 50 RBIs in 94 games before a right hamstring strain sidelined him for two months. He said, “This is where I thought I was going to be the whole time, so let’s just see what happens.” Paredes emphasized focusing on his performance: “I only control what I do on the field.”
Espada views the infield depth positively: “I look at it as a benefit for all the players. … Ultimately, it’s about winning games and winning the [AL] West. We need all these players to do that.” Paredes has been training at second and first base in addition to third and played winter ball in Mexico, opting out of the World Baseball Classic to prioritize health. Trade talks persist with about a month until Opening Day.
