Astros would like to re-sign Tejada

The Astros might not be in position to sign any marquee names when free agency begins in earnest Friday, but general manager Ed Wade is still he confident he can improve the club in the coming weeks through either trades or free agency.

The first task for the Astros is re-signing their own free agents, a list that includes impact players in shortstop Miguel Tejada, closer Jose Valverde and reliever LaTroy Hawkins. Houston likely doesn't have enough payroll flexibility to retain all three, and Tejada's future with the club would be at third base instead of shortstop.

"Everybody is aware Miggy is a free agent and that's 199 hits and a guy who did a really super job for us and a two-time All-Star [with the Astros]," Wade said. "We're not prepared to close any doors with Miggy."

Considering they aren't going to bring Doug Brocail back, re-signing either Hawkins and/or Valverde is one of Wade's top priorities. Wade said the club is also going to explore some options at third base, while trying to address the two backup outfield spots.

-- Brian McTaggart