Defending champions Houston Astros announced last Sunday that they had paused contract extension talks with fan favorites Kyle Tucker and Framber Valdez, the Houston Chronicle reported.
"The Houston #Astros have paused contract extension talks with Framber Valdez and Kyle Tucker, and owner Jim Crane says he still would like to keep Jose Altuve and Alex Bregman in Houston for the duration of their careers," Bob Nightengale, Twitter
Houston Astros general manager Dana Brown defended the decision, assuring fans and the media that it was only temporary and that talks between the parties could resume during or after the season.
Both Tucker and Valdez still have three years left on their current contracts that are due to expire in 2025. While there isn't a pressing need to do anything immediately, financial reasons could be the biggest factor here.
Disgruntled Houston Astros fans took to Twitter to let express their feelings, and they weren't pleasant. Tucker and Framber have been fan favorites since 2018, and numerous fans couldn't wrap their heads around the decision.
The Astros will look to up their performances to bounce back against the White Sox in Game 2
The Chicago White Sox stunned defending champions Houston Astros on opening day, edging them out 3-2 in a closely contested affair.
White Sox first baseman Andrew Vaughn’s two-run double in the ninth inning helped the White Sox cross the line against the Astros on Thursday night.
"Final: White Sox 3, #Astros 2," Houston Astros, Twitter
The Astros will seek revenge in Game 2 of the series, which is due to take place on Friday night at Minute Maid Park.