2017 Astros: Where Are The World Series Champions Now?

Hey baseball fans! Let's take a trip down memory lane and check in on the guys who brought the Commissioner's Trophy to Houston back in 2017. The Houston Astros' 2017 World Series championship team is a squad that many fans remember fondly, but for some, it's also shrouded in the controversy of the sign-stealing scandal. Regardless of how you feel about that aspect, the players themselves have gone on to various paths since that historic season. Many are still playing at a high level, some have moved on to new careers, and others are enjoying retirement. It's always fascinating to see where these athletes end up after their playing days, or even during the later stages of their careers. We're going to dive deep into the roster, giving you the lowdown on where each key player is today. Get ready to relive some memories and find out what your favorite 2017 Astros are up to!

The Core: Still Making an Impact

When you talk about the 2017 Astros roster, a few names immediately jump out, and guess what? Many of them are still playing and dominating the game, guys! Let's start with the undisputed leader, Jose Altuve. This little dynamo, affectionately known as 'Astroball's engine', is still a cornerstone for the Houston Astros. He continues to be a consistent offensive threat, showcasing his incredible bat-to-ball skills and speed. Altuve has remained with the Astros throughout his entire career, becoming a beloved figure and a consistent All-Star. His leadership on and off the field has been crucial for the team's continued success. He's battled some injuries here and there, but when healthy, he's still one of the toughest outs in baseball. His dedication to the game is evident, and he's showing no signs of slowing down, which is pretty amazing considering how long he's been at this elite level. It's hard to believe he's still only in his early 30s, but his MLB career started so young.

Then there's Carlos Correa. After a successful run with the Astros, where he was a pivotal part of that championship team, Correa moved on. He signed a massive deal with the Minnesota Twins and then, in a surprising turn of events, ended up with the San Francisco Giants, only for that deal to fall through. He eventually landed with the New York Mets, but again, contract issues led to him being traded to the Minnesota Twins (for a second time!). It's been a wild ride for Correa off the field contract-wise, but on the field, he remains a strong shortstop with excellent defensive ability and power at the plate. He's a competitor, and wherever he plays, he brings that championship pedigree and intensity. It's a testament to his talent that teams were willing to invest so heavily in him, even with the contract complexities. Watching him play is always a treat, as he possesses that rare combination of skills that make a true difference-maker.

Alex Bregman is another guy who is still a huge part of the Astros. He's evolved from a young, exciting prospect into a seasoned veteran and a leader. Bregman continues to provide power from the hot corner at third base and has become a more complete hitter over the years. He's been a consistent presence in the heart of the Astros' lineup and a key figure in their ongoing competitiveness. His defensive prowess at third base is also noteworthy. He's embraced his role as a leader within the clubhouse, and his passion for the game is undeniable. He's another one who has weathered the storms, including the sign-stealing controversy, and emerged as a respected player who continues to perform at a high level. His growth as a player and a person has been a joy to watch for Astros fans.

And we can't forget about George Springer. After his heroics in the 2017 World Series, Springer went on to have several more productive years with the Astros. He eventually signed with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he continues to be a potent offensive force and a respected veteran presence. Springer's power and ability to get on base are still valuable assets. He's provided a strong bat at the top of the Blue Jays' lineup and has become a leader for that young team. His departure from Houston was bittersweet for many fans, but his contributions to the 2017 championship and his subsequent success are undeniable. He's proven that he can perform at an elite level even after leaving the team that drafted him.

Lance McCullers Jr., when healthy, is still a key arm for the Houston Astros. His journey has been hampered by injuries, but his talent is undeniable. When he's on the mound, he's a dominant force with a nasty slider. He's been instrumental in several playoff runs for the Astros since 2017, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. His comeback stories after surgeries have been inspiring, and he remains a fan favorite. The team has consistently shown faith in him, understanding the immense value he brings when he's able to take the ball. His presence in the rotation is a huge boost, and fans are always excited to see him healthy and pitching lights out. He's a true warrior on the mound.

Pitching Powerhouses: Where Are They Now?

The pitching staff of the 2017 Astros was a huge reason for their success, and it's interesting to see where those arms have landed. Justin Verlander, a dominant force during that championship run, has had a remarkable career resurgence. After leaving Houston for a stint with the New York Mets, he returned to the Astros in 2023. While his time with the Mets didn't go as planned, his return to Houston brought back a familiar face and a veteran presence to the rotation. He continues to defy age and pitch at an incredibly high level, proving that experience and dedication can lead to sustained success. His mentorship of younger pitchers is invaluable, and his competitive fire is still burning bright. It's like having a seasoned general back in command of the pitching staff. His ability to adapt and evolve his pitching style has been key to his longevity.

Dallas Keuchel, the crafty lefty who was a vital part of the rotation, has had a bit of a journeyman's path since leaving Houston. He's pitched for several teams, including the Atlanta Braves, Chicago White Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks. While he hasn't quite recaptured the Cy Young form he showed in Houston, he remains a capable major league pitcher, known for his ground-ball tendencies and excellent control. He's a testament to consistency and finding ways to succeed even when not overpowering hitters. His presence in any rotation provides a steady hand and a veteran presence that can be incredibly valuable. He's a guy who knows how to pitch, and that's always a plus.

Charlie Morton, who was a brilliant postseason performer in 2017, has had a fantastic career beyond that championship year. He went on to have significant success with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Atlanta Braves, even winning another World Series with the Braves in 2021. Morton's career has been a story of resurgence and continued excellence. He's known for his nasty curveball and his ability to eat up innings. He recently retired after the 2023 season, capping off a remarkable career filled with clutch performances and a lasting legacy. His impact on the game will be remembered for years to come, especially his postseason heroics. He was a true workhorse.

Brad Peacock, another key contributor to the bullpen and occasionally the rotation, has bounced around a bit since his Astros days. He's had stints with other organizations, trying to find his footing again in the big leagues. While he may not be a household name anymore, his contributions to the 2017 team were significant, and he was a valuable piece of that championship puzzle. He showed flashes of brilliance and was a reliable arm when called upon. His journey highlights the transient nature of baseball careers and the challenges players face in maintaining their spot in the majors.

Ken Giles, who was the closer for much of that 2017 season, has had a career marked by flashes of dominance mixed with injuries and struggles. He's pitched for several teams since leaving Houston, including the Blue Jays and Mariners. When he's healthy and on his game, he can still bring the heat and shut down opponents, but consistency has been a challenge. His journey is a reminder of the mental and physical toll that being a closer can take on a player. He possesses that elite closer mentality, but injuries can derail even the best.

Beyond the Stars: Other Key Contributors

While the superstars often get the spotlight, the 2017 Astros roster was deep, and many other players played crucial roles. Yuli Gurriel, the veteran first baseman, has been a steady presence for the Astros for many years. He brings a unique offensive style and a veteran's calmness to the clubhouse. He's been a consistent hitter and a solid defender at first base. His journey from Cuba to MLB is a remarkable story in itself, and he's been a valuable asset to the Astros throughout his tenure. He's a grinder who always gives you a professional at-bat. His longevity in the game is a testament to his skill and his dedication to the craft.

Marwin Gonzalez, known for his versatility, has played for several teams since the 2017 championship, including the Red Sox and the Yankees. He can play multiple positions effectively, making him a valuable utility player. His ability to step in wherever needed made him a fan favorite in Houston, and he brought a similar energy to his subsequent teams. He's a player who does a little bit of everything and is always willing to contribute. His knack for coming up with big hits in clutch situations was always appreciated. He's the kind of player every manager loves to have on their bench.

Brian McCann, the veteran catcher, has since retired from baseball. He played a few more seasons after 2017, providing veteran leadership and solid catching for other teams. He was a respected presence behind the plate and a solid hitter throughout his career. His retirement marked the end of a long and successful playing career. He was a true professional and a great teammate. His influence on the younger catchers he played with was immense. He'll likely be involved in baseball in some capacity in the future.

Carlos Beltran, who was a key veteran presence and an impactful hitter in 2017, is no longer playing. He has transitioned into a coaching and broadcasting role. His deep understanding of the game and his experience as a player make him a valuable asset in these new endeavors. He briefly managed the New York Mets before parting ways amidst the sign-stealing scandal fallout. His insights into the game are highly sought after, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the baseball world. He was a player's player, and that translates well to mentorship and analysis.

Evan Gattis, known as 'El Oso Blanco,' has also retired from professional baseball. After his playing days, he has focused on other interests. Gattis was a powerful hitter and a beloved character in the clubhouse. His departure from the game leaves a void in terms of his unique personality and his booming bat. He was a fan favorite for his infectious enthusiasm and his ability to hit the ball a long way. His contributions to the 2017 team were significant, especially in the postseason. He brought a certain swagger to the plate.

The Coaching and Management Side

Beyond the players, it's also worth noting where some of the key coaching staff from the 2017 Astros have ended up. Manager A.J. Hinch was dismissed by the Astros following the sign-stealing scandal but has since returned to managing in MLB, taking the helm of the Detroit Tigers. He's working to rebuild that team and bring success back to Detroit. His tactical mind and leadership skills were evident during the Astros' championship run, and he's looking to prove himself again. He's known for his analytical approach and his ability to connect with players. He's a proven winner.

Jeff Luhnow, the general manager who assembled that championship team, was also dismissed from his role with the Astros. He later took on a role with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp in Japan's NPB, showcasing his global baseball acumen. His innovative approach to team building and player development was a hallmark of his tenure in Houston. His move to Japan highlights his continued passion for the game and his willingness to explore new challenges. He's a highly respected figure in the baseball operations world. He was instrumental in building the foundation of that championship club.

Joe Espada, who served as bench coach in 2017, has since moved up the ranks. He became the bench coach for the New York Yankees and is now the manager of the Houston Astros. His promotion signifies his growth and expertise within the game, and he's now tasked with leading the team he helped win a championship with as a coach. He's a respected strategist and communicator, and his familiarity with the Astros organization is a significant advantage. He's ready for the challenge of leading the club into a new era. He's a player's coach who knows how to get the best out of his roster.

The Legacy and Lingering Questions

The 2017 Astros roster will forever be remembered for their World Series title, but the shadow of the sign-stealing scandal hangs over that achievement. While many of the players have moved on to new teams or new phases of their lives, the impact they had on Houston and on baseball is undeniable. Some players, like Altuve and Bregman, remain with the Astros, continuing to build on that legacy. Others, like Verlander and McCullers Jr., have had their own journeys but have also had impactful returns or continued success elsewhere. The stories of these players offer a fascinating glimpse into the transient nature of professional sports, the dedication required to stay at the top, and the enduring appeal of baseball. It’s a reminder that while teams change and players move on, the memories of those championship moments, for better or worse, stick around. The 2017 Astros team is a complex chapter in baseball history, and understanding where its members are now provides a fuller picture of that era. It's a story of triumph, controversy, and the ever-evolving careers of the men who played the game. What do you guys think about their journeys? Let us know in the comments below!