Why the Astros will be much better in 2014

The Houston Astros were the worst-team in the Major Leagues record-wise in 2013, but they have really used the beginning of this offseason to already give themselves a much better team in 2014. With a few more signings and transactions added with their young players could make the Astros a decent team in 2014; they could even have under 100 losses for the first time since 2010!

• The Astros traded for Dexter Fowler and a PTBNL from the Rockies. Fowler, 28 in 2014, posted a 2.0 WAR in 2013. If you compare that to another Astros outfielder that played in 80+ games, J.D. Martinez (-1.3 WAR), they get a player that could add some wins to your club. Who did they give up? Outfielder Brandon Barnes and starting pitcher Jordan Lyles. Barnes is a 4th outfielder and Lyles is a below-average starter. And they get Dexter Fowler, a proven outfielder who could play well in Houston.
• The Astros sign Scott Feldman. Scott Feldman is a solid pitcher who is a low-risk pitcher that can add plenty of the depth to the club. In 2013, he posted a 12-12 record with a 3.86 ERA and a 1.18 WHIP in 30 starts. Feldman has shown consistency over his career, and could do a great job in 2014. Feldman can throw into the mid-90s, but usually hovers around 90 MPH. He could provide depth and leadership in this young staff.
• The Astros sign Chad Qualls. Although this isn't a flashy signing, Qualls has been a solid right-handed relief pitcher over his lengthy career, posting a career 3.79 ERA in 10-years in the Major Leagues. In 2013, Qualls went 5-2 with a 2.61 ERA in 66 appearances with the Miami Marlins. 
• The Astros have young talent. Although the Astros didn't play very well in September (7-20), they still have plenty of young talent that should appear in the Major Leagues in 2014 and beyond. With players such as Jonathan Singleton, Jarred Cosart, and more, the Astros should be geared up for the 2014 season. This talent should really improve with big league service time, and the Astros have the spots to give them. 

In 2014, we could see the Astros as a decent team. With a few more signings and trades, I wouldn't be surprised if the Astros reached 65+ wins. You shouldn't be too. The Astros have quietly improved themselves player-wise over these past few years, and this offseason, they're ready to improve on the field when the 2014 season rolls around.