Astros sign ex-Giants, Angels slugger to help Yordan Alvarez in power department

Mar 30, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (44) motions towards the dugout after hitting a home run during the third inning against the Boston Red Sox at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The Houston Astros signed a veteran first baseman/outfielder on Thursday afternoon. 

The 32-year-old may be able to assist slugger Yordan Alvarez in the power department. 

According to The Athletic's Chandler Rome, the AL West club has agreed to a Major League contract with left-handed hitter LaMonte Wade Jr. 

Wade opted out of his minor league contract with the Chicago White Sox last week. He did not make an appearance with their big league club and split the 2025 season with the San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Angels. 

Over the course of his seven years in MLB, Wade averages 16 home runs per 162 games. He connected for a career-high 18 homers in 2021 with the Giants. 

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He is a much better hitter against right-handers than southpaws, so Astros manager Joe Espada could write his name in the lineup card for games against lefties or use him in pinch-hit situations. 

Steve Adams of MLB Trade Rumors notes that the Astros' 40-man roster is at capacity, so Houston must make a corresponding move to add Wade to the active roster. 

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