The Astros are severely lacking in star power, leaving it to the likes of outfielders J.D. Martinez and Brian Bogusevic as well as second baseman Jose Altuve and third baseman Jimmy Paredes to make strides. The lone veteran is Carlos Lee, who returns for the final year of his boondoggle contract to split time in left field and at first base.

2011: 56-106, sixth place.

First Workout: Feb. 20/26.

He’s Here: OF Jack Cust, INF Jed Lowrie, RHP Kyle Weiland, C Chris Snyder, RHP Livan Hernandez, LHP Zach Duke.

He’s Outta Here: RHP Mark Melancon, SS Clint Barmes, LF Jason Michaels.

Overview: The Astros had the worst record in the majors and in franchise history last season. They’ve got a new owner in Jim Crane, who bought the team from Drayton McLane, but with a roster filled with young, unproven players their outlook for this season is about the same as last year’s. Former general manager Ed Wade shed almost all of Houston’s recognizable players in the last two seasons trying to replenish the farm system. He was let go soon after Crane took over. New GM Jeff Luhnow is now in charge of trying to turn this franchise around in its farewell season in the National League before next season’s move to the AL. Returning for the Astros is one of last year’s bright spots in third baseman Jimmy Paredes. He hit .286 in 46 games after being promoted from Double-A. First baseman Carlos Lee, who is virtually the only veteran non-pitcher on the roster, returns for the last season of the $100 million contract he signed in 2007 after hitting 18 homers with 94 RBIs in 2011. Catcher Jason Castro won’t be ready for the start of spring training after offseason surgery on his left foot, but the Astros hope he can finally be their full-time catcher this season after injuries have sidelined him since he was a rookie in 2010. RHP Brett Myers leads the rotation and will try to improve on last season’s 7-14 record. He’s joined by lefty Wandy Rodriguez who was 11-11 last year. Brandon Lyon, who had an 11.48 ERA in just 15 games of an injury-plagued 2011, figures to be the closer after Houston traded Melancon to the Red Sox.

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