UNEXPECTED DEAL: Astros secure another stellar talent to a five-year, $125 million deal including…

With spring training on the horizon, the Houston Astros completed a significant move on Tuesday ahead of the 2024 season. They secured their cornerstone player, Jose Altuve, with a lucrative five-year contract worth $125 million, spanning from 2025 to 2029. This deal ensures Altuve’s presence in an Astros uniform as he pursues the milestone of 3,000 hits.

Altuve, who was set to become a free agent after the 2024 season, was not the sole key player facing contract uncertainty. Third baseman Alex Bregman also approaches free agency after the upcoming season. With Altuve’s contract settled, the focus now shifts to Bregman, as the Astros aim to keep their formidable left side of the infield intact.

Owner Jim Crane indicated plans to engage with Bregman regarding a potential extension when the time arises. Bregman, turning 30 in March, delivered solid performance in 2023, although slightly below his exceptional standards set in 2018-2019. Notably, those years coincided with heightened offensive statistics across the league and the Astros’ involvement in a sign-stealing scandal.

Bregman, represented by agent Scott Boras, typically explores free agency options. However, the Astros have succeeded in retaining key Boras clients previously. As Bregman approaches his 31st birthday, his next contract negotiations will likely reference benchmark deals for infielders of similar age.

Considering Bregman’s consistent elite performance and limited internal and external replacements, a significant extension seems plausible, though it comes with risks regarding potential decline years. Meanwhile, Altuve’s situation contrasts with Bregman’s, as Altuve’s extension covers the twilight of his career, whereas Bregman remains in his prime.

Despite securing Altuve’s services for the foreseeable future, uncertainty looms over Bregman’s future with the team beyond 2024. Given owner Jim Crane’s reluctance towards significant free agent deals, Bregman’s next contract could lead him to explore opportunities with other teams in the upcoming offseason.