Alex Bregman remains on the open market, and the Houston Astros presumably have their 2025 third baseman in Isaac Paredes — whom they acquired as part of their return from the Chicago Cubs for outfielder Kyle Tucker last month. But where there’s a will, there’s a way, right?
Astros star second baseman Jose Altuve expressed that he’d be open to changing positions if it would help the team re-sign Bregman.
“We haven’t talked about it, but for Alex, I’d do whatever,” Altuve said at Astros FanFest on Saturday. “He’s one of the best players in the whole league, but definitely one of the best players on this team. We want him to stay, and whatever I have to do for him to stay I’m willing to do it. … We have a better chance to win a championship with [Bregman].
Houston’s depth chart would have to change if Bregman, who has primarily played third base during his nine-year MLB career, comes back. Free agent signee Christian Walker is the team’s first baseman, with Jeremy Pena at shortstop. Paredes has played first and second base, with Paredes’ experience in the middle infield position opening the door for him to move to second with Bregman returning to the hot corner.
Such moves would necessitate Altuve, a nine-time All-Star, becoming the team’s designated hitter or moving to the outfield, which he has never played at either the MLB or MiLB level.
Astros manager Joe Espada feels that the Astros could figure out their defensive positioning if Bregman is back.
“I respect his willingness to do whatever it takes,” Espada said about Altuve. “We had conversations about what our lineup would be like if we bring Alex back, and I’m confident we could get it done if he chooses to come back to the Astros.”
Outside of Houston, the Detroit Tigers, who are managed by former Astros skipper A.J. Hinch, and the Boston Red Sox have frequently been linked to Bregman.
Last season, Bregman, a Gold Glover and two-time All-Star, totaled 26 home runs and 75 RBIs in 145 games, while slashing .260/.315/.453. Bregman’s .768 OPS was the worst of his career. He turns 31 in March.
