The Houston Astros are poised to be buyers at the trade deadline, and with numerous roster injuries, they could look to make a significant move. One of the largest areas of concern is with Isaac Paredes at third base, which has prompted the Astros to make trade inquiries for replacements.
One of those potential replacements, according to a report from Bob Nightengale of USA Today, is Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa. While not a direct Paredes replacement, a reunion is something on the table for Houston and Correa.
"The Astros, a high-ranking executive told USA TODAY Sports," Nightengale writes, "are exploring the possibility of acquiring Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa..."
A potential reunion with Correa is more than on the table, as Nightengale writes, "He has a full no-trade clause. Yet, he has told friends that he would waive his no-trade for the opportunity to return to Houston, where he and his family still reside in the offseason."
The 30-year-old veteran is owed $103.5 million through 2028, including club options from 2029 through 2032. The Twins' shortstop has struggled this season, hitting .265 with a .701 OPS on the season thanks to a .384 slugging percentage, the second-lowest of his career.
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But he's shown an ability to be an elite hitter just one season ago. He had a .310 batting average and a .905 OPS in 2024, but only played 86 games due to injury.
Landing Correa at the deadline won't come cheap, both in terms of assets sent to Minnesota and the contract remaining for Correa. Houston may ask the Twins to pay off some of his remaining salary, but regardless, the cost will still be high.
However, it might be worth it. If Paredes is out for the remainder of the year, and Correa is willing to return to Houston, then a reunion is a realistic possibility at the deadline.
Sitting atop the AL West, but faltering recently, the Astros need to bolster the roster before the division lead slips out of their hands. Correa, even with his struggles this season, would be a great way to improve the roster at the deadline.
With less than 48 hours until the trade deadline, the Astros are pursuing a replacement at third base amid the injury to Paredes. While not a direct replacement, the Astros are considering a reunion with Correa at the trade deadline to fill Paredes' spot in the field.
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