MLB insiders weigh in on Astros, Bregman negotiations and realistic alternatives
CHANGES ON THE HORIZON
18 November 2024
The Astros' top priority is third base, according to GM Dana Brown. Composite Getty Image.
As we begin another week of MLB free agency, it doesn't appear the Astros are any closer to signing Alex Bregman. But we are hearing that Astros GM Dana Brown is having positive conversations with Bregman's agent Scott Boras.
Owner Jim Crane spoke on Monday and said there's nothing new to report on the Bregman front, but there will be some big changes in 2025.
Jim Crane said there is "nothing to report" on negotiations with Alex Bregman. Crane said Dana Brown and Scott Boras have been "visiting frequently." Crane said he talked to Boras once earlier this winter.
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) November 18, 2024
The Astros' home will get a new name on Jan. 1, becoming Daikin Park under an agreement through the 2039 season.
Personally, it will be hard to say goodbye to the “Juice Box,” but we understand the Astros taking part in a cash grab that could ultimately help the team retain some of our favorite players going forward, like Bregman.
Speaking of which, we're seeing reports that Bregman is seeking a deal similar to Manny Machado's, (11-years, $350 million).
That number may sound crazy, but The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal thinks Boras and Bregman have their sights set high. If Bregman does receive an offer in the $300 million range, MLB Network's Jon Morosi thinks the club could pivot to former Brewers' infielder Willy Adames.
Morosi could see a scenario where Adames agrees to a $200 million contract with Houston, should the club miss out on re-signing Bregman.
Based on the Astros recent history, these contracts seem a bit out of reach. But ESPN's Jeff Passan reported last week that the Astros may be willing to over spend a bit for Bregman, because the team won't be willing to hand Kyle Tucker a $300 million contract after the 2025 season.
At this point, it's hard to know what the true market is for these players. Some believe Adames will get more than Bregman, since he's younger and hits for more power. We also know that Boras has a history of overplaying his hand.
Be sure to watch the video above as we examine the top options for the Astros in free agency, discuss if the club can find some answers in the trade market, and much more!
For Astros’ conversation, catch Brandon Strange, Josh Jordan, and Charlie Pallilo on our Stone Cold 'Stros podcasts!Episodes drop on Mondays and bonus episodes are released on Wednesdays when the news cycle dictates.
Jalen Green scored 32 points ahd had 11 rebounds and the Houston Rockets beat the Atlanta Hawks 121-114 on Tuesday night.
Fred VanVleet shot 5 of 14 from the field, including 3 for 8 from 3-point range, and went 8 for 8 from the line to add 21 points. Tari Eason had 14 rebounds.
Dyson Daniels led the Hawks with 19 points, eight rebounds, 10 assists and four steals. Trae Young added 19 points and 12 assists for Atlanta.
The Rockets took the lead with 1:13 remaining in the first quarter and did not give it up. The score was 65-48 by halftime, with Green scoring 14 points.
The Rockets led by 20 after three quarters. The Hawks pulled within 98-94 with 7:20 left after a 17-2 run.
The Rockets were outscored by the Hawks in the second half by 10 points.
Takeaways
Hawks: Atlanta had won three straight, but the Hawks made just 15 of 49 3-pointers against the Rockets — not what a team trying to avoid the play-in tournament needed.
Rockets: Houston strengthened its hold on the No. 2 spot in the West. With the win the 47-26 Rockets are now two games ahead of Denver, which was idle Tuesday night. Houston has won 10 of its last 11 games.
Key moment:
VanVleet mad 4 of 4 free throws in the final 14 seconds after Georges Niang had pulled the Hawks within 117-114 with a 3-pointer with 22 seconds left.
Key stat
Houston made 26 of 29 free throws.
Up next
The Hawks visit the Miami Heat on Thursday night. The Rockets play at the Utah Jazz the same night.
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