"There's no secret what Alex Bregman means" - Houston Astros manager 'hopeful' of retaining 2x All-Star amid free agency drama

The future of Alex Bregman, a two-time All-Star for the Houston Astros, remains uncertain as Houston goes through a very important offseason. The talented third baseman became a free agent, but Joe Espada, Houston's manager, has hope that the Astros will be able to keep him with the team because he is so important.

"There is no secret what he means to this team and his organization," Espada said during a media talk on Monday. "Breggy is a winner. He's a leader. He has all the qualities that you want on, that you are looking on a baseball player.

"This is the part of business. I don't have much control over that. Just to show my support and the fact that he knows that, you know, we love him, I love him and he knows that. But, you know, he's got the right to do what he thinks is best for him and his family, and that's also important."

Ever since joining the Astros in 2016, Bregman has played an important role in their numerous playoff trips and World Series victories in 2017 and 2022. He also was the MVP of the 2018 All-Star Game.

His postseason experience makes him a priceless asset towards the Astros’ journey for another championship. He is ranked second in terms of postseason games played at 30 years old among all players, behind only Derek Jeter.

"He's tough and makes everyone around him a much better player," Espada said. "He is a gamer. He's that one guy that comes in every single day and you don't have to worry about him. He plays through pain, you know. Breggy is just a ballplayer.

"I've had the opportunity to watch him play for many many years. It's been great, so we'll see, you know. I don't want this to sound like I'm never going to see him again, but again, it really is a pleasure to have him around. He's been phenomenal. So, hopefully we'll get something done."

Bregman’s future uncertain as free agency approaches and Astros face tough choices with growing interest

Alex Bregman - Image via Getty

Many suitors are expected to bid for Alex Bregman’s signature, including big spenders such as the New York Yankees, New York Mets and Seattle Mariners.

It is anticipated that these suitors will be capable of offering contracts much higher than his current one, which averages around $30 million per season.

Alex Bregman's 2024 season ended with a batting average of .260. He managed an OBP of .315 and a slugging percentage of .453. He hit 26 homers and stole three bases.

In 2024, Bregman won his first career Gold Glove Award at third base in the American League. He was nominated for the award three times in his career before finally winning it. He won his first Silver Slugger Award in 2019.

The Astros face not only financial challenges but also the need to balance their team as other important players, such as Kyle Tucker, are also near free agency. Even so, the Astros must consider their overall strategy moving forward, especially after an early playoff exit in 2024.