MLB insiders weigh in on Astros, Bregman negotiations and realistic alternatives
CHANGES ON THE HORIZON
18 November 2024
CHANGES ON THE HORIZON
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.
The Houston Texans came into this draft with many anticipating they would trade up to address their need on the offensive line. Instead, the Texans elected to trade back to pick No. 34 after agreeing to a deal with the Giants.
The Texans also receive pick number 99, and a 2026 third-round selection.
🚨 We’ve traded pick 25 to the Giants for pick 34, 99 and a 2026 third-rounder 🚨 pic.twitter.com/SZWhBVKHlS
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) April 25, 2025
When Ohio State's offensive lineman Donovan Jackson and Texas receiver Matthew Golden went off the board right in front of them, the Texans decided to go with a contingency plan, it seems.
We'll have to wait until Friday night to see what the Texans do with their picks.