Astros Owner: Alex Bregman Backup Options Being Explored in FA amid Contract Talks

Houston Astros owner Jim Crane is discussing the future of third baseman Alex Bregman and whether the team will be "exploring" backup options, per Chandler Rome of The Athletic.

The owner mentioned that he had spoken with Bregman's agent, Scott Boras, earlier in the negotiations but has since left the discussions primarily to general manager Dana Brown.

"We all know Scott. He's going to do the best he can to get the most money for him if it's a place he wants to go," Crane said. "But, at some point we'd have to make a decision. We're looking now as a backup and we're exploring all the options. That's what's happening now."

Crane acknowledged that there is "nothing to report yet" regarding updates in the negotiations, but Boras and Brown have been "visiting frequently," with "productive" conversations taking place.

Bregman has emerged as a leader for the Houston Astros, winning two World Series titles with the franchise in 2017 and 2022.

At the conclusion of the Houston Astros' 2024 season, where they finished with an 88-73 record, the usually reserved José Altuve practically demanded that the club re-sign Bregman, according to Rome.

"We told him we were going to make a strong effort to get it done and we'd do our best," Crane said. "It carries some weight with me and carries some weight with Dana."

The 30-year-old has spent all nine of his major-league seasons with the Astros, making his debut with the team in 2016. Bregman boasts a .272 career batting average, along with 663 RBI and 191 home runs.