When the Houston Astros lost Alex Bregman last offseason, there was no telling how they would recover.
Bregman was an institution at the hot corner for nine years, racking up a Gold Glove, a Silver Slugger, numerous top MVP finishes, and, most notably, playing an instrumental role in their two World Series victories.
But Bregman saw greener pastures with the Boston Red Sox, and inked a three-year, $120 million deal with opt-out clauses after this year and next. Now, the question is whether or not Bregman will stick around with the Red Sox and their exciting young nucleus, or take a better offer elsewhere.
Given that Scott Boras represents him, it is a safe bet he will opt out. However, that does not mean teams like the Astros will have a great shot at landing him.
Boston’s core is cheap, and a potential “overspend” on Bregman would not hinder their future too much. Even if Houston — who leads the American League West at 68-53 and holds a one-game advantage over the Seattle Mariners — could bring Bregman back, he would be a luxury, not a necessity.
Isaac Paredes was one of the key returns in the Kyle Tucker trade, and while he is on the injured list with a significant hamstring strain, he solidified himself as the future at third base this summer. Over 94 games, the 26-year-old hit .259 with an .829 OPS, a 128 OPS+, 19 home runs, 50 RBIs, and a 49:67 BB:K ratio.
He is also under team control through 2027.
Plus, the Astros traded for Carlos Correa and put him at third, with Jeremy Peña in the midst of a stellar season at shortstop.
Bregman will always hold a special place in Houston’s heart, and as tantalizing as a reunion sounds, it does not necessarily make sense for either party.