The Houston Astros have completely turned their season around.
At one point, it seemed like the Astros would trade big-time players before the trade deadline. When they did, some even wondered if Houston would end up trading away superstar third baseman Alex Bregman.
Bregman has been a key part of the Astros’ lineup for the past nine years, but will be a free agent at the end of the season. It appears Bregman’s time in Houston may be coming to an end.
The Astros retained him before the trade deadline, but this summer that will likely change. If that happens, Houston will have to find a way to replace him at third base. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand suggested four-time Gold Glove Award winner Matt Chapman could be a worthy option for the free agent.
“Chapman struggled to find a contract he liked last offseason before signing a $54 million deal with the Giants that includes opt-out clauses after 2024 and 2025. Chapman got off to a subpar start (hitting .206 with five home runs and a .599 OPS in his first 44 games), but he has shined in his last 81 games, posting an .877 OPS with 15 home runs while playing his normally strong defense at third base,” Feinsand said. “Unless he gets injured or doesn’t finish his year well, Chapman will likely opt out and test the market again this winter, though a return to San Francisco with a new contract wouldn’t be a surprise. Possible candidates: Astros, (San Francisco Giants), (and) (Seattle Mariners).”
Chapman has been great for the Giants this season and will be one of the best free agents available. He has a batting average of .247/.337/.446 with 20 home runs and 62 RBIs in 125 games so far this season, while also once again providing excellent defense.
If the Astros lose Bregman, it would not be a surprise if they entered the sweepstakes to sign Chapman.
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