Houston Astros Draft Picks: How to Watch and What to Expect

Houston Astros are set to make six selections on Day 1 of the MLB draft, including two picks inside the top‑28, as the club looks to add depth while sitting 8th in the American League with a 46‑49 record and riding a one‑game losing streak.

When and where can fans watch the Astros’ draft picks?

The first ten selections air at noon on Saturday on NBC and Peacock. Picks 11‑40 shift to 1:30 p.m. on MLB Network, MLB TV and MLB.com. The Astros’ early rounds will be streamed live, so fans can see the team’s choices in real time. After the first day, rounds 5‑20 continue Sunday at 10:30 a.m. on MLB.com and MLB TV.

Which prospects are the Astros targeting?

Houston’s scouting department highlighted several Texas‑born talents. Gavin Grahovac, a junior infielder from Texas A&M, posted a .339/.429/.722 slash line, 22 homers and 74 RBIs last season, earning first‑team All‑SEC honors. Christopher Hacopian, also an infielder from Texas A&M, hit .319 with 11 homers and a .405 on‑base percentage after transferring from Maryland. Catcher Carson Tinney, now with the University of Texas, posted a .326 average, 22 home runs and a .483 OBP, making him a top‑ranked offensive catcher.

How do these picks fit the Astros’ roster needs?

The Astros struggled on the mound in their most recent outing, losing 8‑2 to the Washington Nationals on July 8, 2026. Adding right‑hander Ruger Riojas, who logged a 3.97 ERA with 120 strikeouts over 81⅔ innings for Texas, could bolster a bullpen that has been thin. Outfielder Tre Broussard from the University of Houston brings speed and defensive versatility, addressing a need for athletic depth in the outfield.

What does the draft mean for the Astros’ future?

With a $13,712,700 bonus pool, Houston can sign several high‑upside amateurs without incurring penalties. The blend of power hitters, a polished catcher and a promising pitcher gives the club options to reinforce both the major‑league roster and its Triple‑A affiliate. If the prospects develop as projected, the Astros could see a quicker turnaround than the current 46‑49 stretch suggests.

Are there any local high‑school talents on the board?

C.J. Sampson, a right‑hander and infielder from Tomball, is the son of former Astros pitcher Chris Sampson. His dual‑position skill set adds flexibility, and his local roots may resonate with the fan base. While still a raw prospect, Sampson’s inclusion signals Houston’s interest in nurturing home‑grown talent.

What’s the next step after the draft?

After the selections, the Astros will invite signees to spring training, where they’ll compete for spots in the organization’s farm system. The team’s front office will monitor each player’s progress, aiming to integrate the most MLB‑ready talent into the roster before the trade deadline. For a club looking to climb out of the AL’s lower tier, the draft offers a crucial infusion of young talent.