Astros To Discuss Contract Extension With All-Star Outfielder
First, it was Jose Altuve. Next, the news broke that the Houston Astros would at least offer an extension to Alex Bregman.
Now, it appears the Astros will try again with Kyle Tucker.
Brown recently told MLB Network Radio that the Astros intend to talk with Tucker about a contract extension, even though Tucker isn’t a free agent until after the 2025 seasons.
The Astros have become a proactive team when it comes to extensions. Brown worked to get pitcher Cristian Javier into a five-year extension last year, one that helped Javier through his arbitration years.
Last week the Astros extended Altuve for five years and $125 million, assuring he’ll remain in Houston for potentially the rest of his career.
Tucker’s extension may be a different story. Tucker is entering his age 27 season and finished fifth in AL Most Valuable Player voting last year. He could be a cornerstone in Houston long after Altuve is done, assuming he is after his extension is complete.
The Astros have already been down this road with Tucker. In 2022 the club and Tucker tried and failed to get Tucker into an extension that was believed to be one that would get him through his arbitration seasons.
Tucker and the Astros agreed to a $12 million deal to avoid arbitration this season. But given how the outfielder’s numbers steadily rise, his arbitration bill for 2025 could approach $20 million.
Tucker won his first Silver Slugger in 2023 after he slashed .284/.369/.517/.886 with 29 home runs, 112 RBI and 30 stolen bases. His 112 RBI was an American League-high.
He is now a two-time All-Star, a Gold Glove winner in 2022 and has finished in the Top 20 in MVP voting the past two seasons.
If the Astros have their way they’ll get Tucker into a long-term deal. But it’s going to cost them.
