The Houston Astros have had an up-and-down offseason regarding free agent infielder Alex Bregman. Initially, re-signing Bregman was a priority, but negotiations fell through as the two sides couldn’t reach an agreement. Rather than meeting his reported demand of nearly $200 million, the Astros shifted their focus elsewhere.
They instead signed Christian Walker to play first base and acquired Isaac Paredes for third base. However, with Bregman’s free agency talks stalling, Houston has re-entered the mix.
Currently, they appear to be the frontrunners, though Bregman has yet to accept their reported $156 million offer.
The Astros may have room to clear some payroll, which could allow them to slightly increase their offer and outbid the remaining suitors.
This Astros-Orioles trade would free Houston up to bring back Alex Bregman
If the Astros decide to trade starting pitcher Framber Valdez, they could free up a significant amount of payroll. Several teams would be eager to acquire the Astros’ ace, with the Baltimore Orioles emerging as a strong potential suitor.
Baltimore lost Corbin Burnes earlier this offseason and has yet to secure a true ace to replace him. Acquiring Valdez would fill that void.
Trade Proposal:
Baltimore Orioles Receive:
- LHP Framber Valdez
Houston Astros Receive:
- OF Heston Kjerstad
- OF Dylan Beavers
Kjerstad, 25, faces an unclear path to a starting role in Baltimore this season, especially after the Orioles recently signed another big-league outfielder. With limited opportunities, he is a likely trade candidate before the season begins. Last year, he posted a .253/.351/.394 slash line with four home runs in 99 at-bats, showcasing plus power and strong hitting ability.
Beavers, 23, spent 2024 between Double-A and Triple-A, hitting .242/.342/.408. He is expected to begin 2025 in Triple-A, but if he gets off to a strong start, he could reach the majors before the All-Star break. The young outfielder possesses above-average tools across the board.
This trade would be a significant move for Baltimore, solidifying their rotation with a legitimate ace. Meanwhile, for Houston, it would accomplish two key objectives—shedding Valdez’s contract and replenishing their outfield depth, a pressing need after trading Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs.
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