The Astros Eyeing a Reunion with Carlos Correa
The Houston Astros might be looking to reunite with former star Carlos Correa, according to a recent report from John Heyman.
However, it seems that there are a few obstacles in the way before Houston can bring back a key player from their 2017 World Series Championship team.
Correa, now 30, holds a complete no-trade clause and is said to be well-liked in Minnesota.
On top of that, the Astros are reportedly looking for left-handed hitting options, while Correa is a right-handed bat.
With a number of injuries affecting their lineup in the AL West, Houston is eager to add some offensive power.
Notable injuries include those to star slugger Yordan Alvarez, shortstop Jeremy Peña, third baseman Isaac Paredes, second baseman Brendan Rodgers, and center fielder Jake Myers.
Additionally, the team is also without pitchers Christian Javier and Ronel Blanco for the rest of the season.
Despite these injuries, as of Wednesday, the Astros still hold a four-game lead in the AL West. Their championship experience might just help them navigate through this difficult moment.
Correa could bring some much-needed stability to the team, but questions linger about his performance as he approaches his eleventh season. He’s had a .267 batting average with seven home runs and 31 RBIs, resulting in a .704 OPS so far this season. Comparatively, he had a solid .905 OPS last year, hitting .310, but struggled with a .711 OPS the year prior.
The size of his contract also complicates potential trade talks. Correa’s current deal is estimated at around $96 million over the next three years, featuring team options that could total up to $90 million over the following four years.
These options tie into various performance metrics, such as key plate appearances and accolades like MVP finishes or Silver Slugger honors.
Correa originally spent the first seven years of his career with the Astros before signing with the Twins in 2022 and then re-signing for a six-year, $200 million deal the following year.
Interestingly, the Twins have a number of players, like closer Joakim Duran and outfielder Harrison Bader, who could also see their names floated in trade discussions as the deadline approaches.
