Houston Astros Sign C.J. Alexander to Minor League Deal

The Houston Astros just added some organizational depth by signing CJ Alexander to a minor-league contract. He might even get a non-roster invite to big-league camp.

This move puts the versatile infielder/outfielder at Triple-A Sugar Land. If spring training goes well, there’s a shot he sneaks onto the Astros’ 40-man roster.

Alexander’s track record is a mixed bag. He shined in Triple-A in 2024, but his 2025 numbers dipped a bit in the minors.

He’s the kind of defensively flexible guy teams like to stash for bench depth, especially when you need someone who can handle multiple corner spots.

CJ Alexander signing: what it signals for the Astros

He’s 29 and has barely tasted the majors—just 25 plate appearances in 10 games. Four singles, zero walks, and 11 strikeouts. Ouch.

But Triple-A? That’s another story. In 2024, he slashed .302/.361/.559 with a 130 wRC+, showing he can hit for average and some pop against tougher minor-league arms.

Things cooled off in 2025, dropping to .254/.335/.448 and a 91 wRC+. Houston’s front office will have to figure out which version of Alexander is the real deal—and how much his defensive flexibility matters.

He’s played all four corner spots, which makes him a solid bench option. The Astros’ lineup leans heavily left-handed, with Yordan Alvarez as the main lefty thumper.

Adding another left-handed bat who can cover outfield or infield corners could help, especially if someone tweaks something during spring or the roster needs a late shake-up.

• MLB experience: 25 plate appearances in 10 games, four singles, 11 strikeouts, no walks.
• Triple-A highlights: .302/.361/.559 in 2024 (130 wRC+).
• 2025 trajectory: .254/.335/.448 (91 wRC+) in the minors.
• Defensive versatility: capable at all four corner spots on the infield/outfield.
• Roster flexibility: still has a minor-league option remaining, aiding roster management.

Left-handed bat, roster balance, and Opening Day considerations

Alexander’s left-handed swing is probably his biggest selling point. The Astros don’t have much lefty power outside of Alvarez.

Having a left-handed hitter who can play the corners might come in handy if injuries hit or if they want to tinker with the Opening Day roster. Honestly, with non-roster guys, you never know who’s going to pop in camp.

Position flexibility and what it means for the infield

Defensively, Alexander covers a lot of ground. He can fill in at any corner, which gives Houston some breathing room if someone goes down.

The infield’s crowded right now—Carlos Correa at third, Christian Walker at first, and Isaac Paredes as the main backup. If a trade or injury happens, Alexander can slide between infield and outfield, plugging gaps without forcing a prospect up too soon.

Path to everyday playing time and long-term considerations

Let’s be real—Alexander’s best shot at MLB time with Houston is as a corner-outfield option, not an everyday infielder.

If he impresses in spring, maybe he grabs a bench spot, especially if a platoon situation opens up. The minor-league option gives Houston some wiggle room, and his versatility keeps him in the mix as a depth guy early in the season.

Roster movement history and experience across organizations

Alexander’s journey to Houston has included several notable stops. He was designated by the Royals late in 2024 and then claimed by the Athletics.

After that, he moved through waiver claims to the Yankees and Dodgers in 2025 before hitting free agency. Honestly, it’s a bit dizzying to track all the movement, but it shows how teams still see value in players who can contribute in short MLB stints and offer upside in the minors.

The Astros picked him up as part of their bigger plan to keep the upper minors stocked with hitters. They want guys who can step up when there’s a sudden need, and Alexander fits that mold.

 
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