What's really behind NY media smearing Astros ace out the door

SOUR GRAPES

The New York Post published a piece recently about Justin Verlander's time with the New York Mets. The article had some quotes from an anonymous source saying some felt that Verlander acted like a “diva” and wasn't making a big enough effort to be part of the team.

It was also reported that JV felt like the Mets' analytics department, wasn't quite on the same level as the Astros. (Sounds like Verlander was just telling the truth).

The article also suggested that there was some occasional “discord” between Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer. But with nobody willing to put their name on any of these quotes, it sure sounds like sour grapes from the NY media with Justin heading back to Houston.

Verlander addressed the report on social media a few days later, taking the high road:

So what should we read into this report? If there is any beef between JV and Scherzer, it should be a fun rivalry to watch with the Rangers and Astros competing down the stretch for the AL West crown.

Be sure to watch the video above for the full discussion!

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How will Soto's massive contract impact the Astros?Composite Getty Image.

Over the weekend, the big domino finally fell with Juan Soto agreeing to a 15-year, $765 million megadeal with the New York Mets. Which means Alex Bregman and the other top free agents on the market should soon follow in short order.

In fact, we're already seeing reports from Rob Bradford of WEEI and USA Today’s Bob Nightengale claiming that the Red Sox and Yankees are “expected” to make a run at Bregman.

Soto heading to the National League certainly feels like a win for Astros fans, but that could change if missing out on Soto causes the Yankees to pry Breggy away from Houston.

We'll have to wait and see how this plays out before we get too excited. However, one thing is for sure, all the free agents on the market have to be thrilled about the size of Soto's deal. Not to mention Willy Adames' 7-year, $182 million deal with the Giants that could help Bregman's chances of receiving a more lucrative deal than the Astros reportedly offered him, 6- years, $154 million.

What's really eye-opening about Soto's contract is how it could impact Framber Valdez and Kyle Tucker, specifically Tucker. It's hard to imagine Tucker won't get an offer of at least $300 million, and at this point $400 million wouldn't surprise us.

Historically, the Astros don't trade their big name free agents before their contracts expire, but perhaps they should rethink that approach with King Tuck. If they won't even entertain a deal approaching $300 million, it might be worth taking a step back this year to replenish the farm system and focus on the team long-term.

Speaking of trades, the Astros are reportedly calling anyone who will listen about the availability of Ryan Pressly.

Don't miss the video above as we react to the Soto deal, share our thoughts on how it could impact the Astros championship window, and much more!

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