MLB insiders weigh in on Astros, Bregman negotiations and realistic alternatives
CHANGES ON THE HORIZON
18 November
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.
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MLB insider creates firestorm on free agency, shots fired at Astros
Dec 30, 2024, 5:47 pm
Should more teams operate like the Dodgers? Composite: Getty Images, IG: Christian Walker, IG: MLB on FOX.
ESPN's Jeff Passan caused quite the frenzy on Friday when he posted on X about the Dodgers' “pursuit of winning” being unmatched.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are a machine. Not only do they print cash, their willingness to spend it in pursuit of winning is unmatched. They put their money where their mouth is. Others could benefit greatly from the same approach. They choose not to.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 27, 2024
He also made it clear that other organizations could follow the Dodgers' blueprint and defer money, but they choose not to, for a variety of reasons.
Passan received some pushback, with many people pointing to the TV money the Dodgers receive, that just isn't a reality in other markets. But as Passan points out in the post below, deferring money isn't exclusive to the Dodgers.
Bobby Bonilla, Ken Griffey Jr, Francisco Lindor, Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg, Christian Yelich and plenty of others deferred money. Arizona’s ownership needed to sell in 2004 because it deferred too much.
Before you complain, understand history a little. It’s not hard.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 28, 2024
Passan's stance on free agency got us thinking about how the Astros handle their contracts, and stick to their policy of avoiding long-term deals.
If ever there was a player to make an exception for, it would have been Kyle Tucker. But it also takes two to tango. Tucker would have to have been willing to defer some of his money. Plus, there is some downside when teams defer cash. It lowers the perceived value of the team, and some clubs have been forced to take floater loans just to make payroll.
Shots fired!
Super agent Scott Boras took a swipe at the Astros after they dropped out of the running for Alex Bregman.
“Over time, teams learn if you’re running from leadership and talent, you’re running from the ultimate goal,” said Boras. It's funny, we don't remember Boras having that same opinion of the 'Stros when his client Jose Altuve signed a long-term deal with the club just last year. He is clearly upset about losing leverage in the Bregman negotiations, with Houston no longer in the mix.
Don't miss the video above as we address the comments from Passan and Boras, and examine if Crane's philosophy on mega contracts needs to evolve for the Astros to compete at the highest levels again.
Plus, will Corbin Burnes' massive deal with the Diamondbacks change the Astros' approach with Framber Valdez?
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