The Houston Astros have completely turned their season around.
At one point it seemed like the Astros were going to be major sellers ahead of the trade deadline. When this was the case, some even wondered if Houston would end up trading superstar third baseman Alex Bregman.
Bregman has been an important piece of the Astros' lineup for the last nine years but will be a free agent at the end of the season. It seems like Bregman's time in Houston could be coming to an end.
The Astros ended up holding on to him ahead of the trade deadline, but things likely will change this summer. If this ends up being the case, Houston will need 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 in free agency.
"Chapman struggled to find a deal he liked last offseason before signing a $54 million contract with the Giants, one which includes opt-out clauses after both 2024 and 2025. Chapman got off to a subpar start (he hit .206 with five homers and a .599 OPS through his first 44 games) but he’s excelled in his past 81 games, posting a .877 OPS with 15 homers while playing his usually strong defense at third base," Feinsand said. "Barring injury or a terrible finish to his year, Chapman seems likely to opt out and test the market again this winter, though a return to San Francisco with a new deal wouldn’t be a surprise. Potential fits: Astros, (San Francisco Giants), (and) (Seattle Mariners)."
Chapman has been great this season for the Giants and is going to be one of the best free agents available. He is slashing .247/.337/.446 with 20 home runs and 62 RBIs in 125 games so far this season while also providing stellar defense once again.
If the Astros were to lose Bregman, don't be surprised if they get involved in the sweepstakes to sign Chapman.
More MLB: Astros are top destination for four-time All-Star slugger, per insider