How Astros could be on verge of biggest free agent swerve of the offseason
FA SWERVE!
27 January
Are more Breggy bombs on the horizon in H-Town? Composite Getty Image.
Just when we thought free agency couldn't get any wilder, this happens! Astros GM Dana Brown spoke to the media over the weekend and kept the door cracked for a possible Alex Bregman return.
Then Jose Altuve volunteered to switch positions and head to left field if the club is able to secure a reunion with Breggy. And that's not all, the Astros traded Ryan Pressly to the Cubs on Sunday, which gave the 'Stros $8.5 million of salary relief.
A move that has the club now under the first tax threshold, something owner Jim Crane has reportedly been in favor of.
Now the ball is in Bregman's court. If the club signs Bregman, they will exceed the first tax threshold, but not the second one. It appears Crane would only consider a move like this for a franchise favorite like Breggy.
And while bringing back Bregman would give the offense a boost, there are legitimate concerns about what this would mean for the defense. Altuve's lack of experience and arm strength in the outfield can't be ignored.
But considering Altuve's decline at second base, a change of position could have been necessary at some point anyway.
A bit of caution
At the end of the day, we have to accept the possibility that this is all a negotiating tactic from agent Scott Boras to regain leverage against other teams looking to sign Bregman.
On the mend
Astros GM Dana Brown shared positive updates on Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers. They won't be ready to start the season, but if they continue progressing, the club expects them back shortly after the season begins.
While it's fair to be skeptical about McCullers, who hasn't pitched for Houston since 2022, he does possess serious upside if he can finally get healthy. Keep in mind, he's pitched well throughout his career. It's the injuries that have held him back.
How much will they miss Pressly?
Make no mistake about it, Pressly was one of three rock solid options in the bullpen. Now that he's gone, who will fill his shoes? Tayler Scott was surprisingly great in 2024, but can he repeat that success again?
Don't miss the video above as the crew from Stone Cold 'Stros breaks it all down!
*Looking to get the word out about your business, products, or services? Consider advertising on SportsMap! It's a great way to get in front of Houston sports fans. Click the link below for more information!
In a move that sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Houston Rockets have pulled off a blockbuster trade for Kevin Durant, acquiring the superstar forward from the Phoenix Suns. The deal comes at a steep price—Houston parts ways with Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-rounders.
In this episode, we react to the stunning trade and break down what it means for the Rockets’ future. Is parting with Green and Brooks too much, or a necessary step toward contention? We examine the risks tied to Durant’s age and injury history, and what losing a defensive anchor like Brooks means for a young, evolving roster.
We also dive into what KD brings to the table—his scoring ability, his contract situation, and whether he can truly be "the guy" on a team that’s looking to take the next step. And if he can’t stay healthy come playoff time… was the gamble even worth it?
The Rockets just pushed all their chips in. The question now: did they bet on the right hand?
Be sure to watch the video below as ESPN Houston's John Granato and Lance Zierlein share their thoughts on the newest addition to the Rockets.
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Looking to get the word out about your business, products, or services? Consider advertising on SportsMap! It's a great way to get in front of Houston sports fans. Click the link below for more information!
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