Initially, it was Jose Altuve in the spotlight. Then, news emerged that the Houston Astros were considering extending Alex Bregman’s contract. Now, the focus shifts to Kyle Tucker.
According to recent comments by Brown on MLB Network Radio, the Astros are planning to initiate discussions with Tucker regarding a contract extension, despite his free agency not being until after the 2025 season.
The Astros have been proactive in securing extensions lately. Brown successfully negotiated a five-year extension for pitcher Cristian Javier last year, which covered his arbitration years. Last week, Altuve signed a five-year, $125 million extension, ensuring his presence in Houston for the foreseeable future.
Tucker’s extension, however, might present a different scenario. At 27 years old entering the upcoming season, and having finished fifth in AL Most Valuable Player voting last year, he could potentially serve as a cornerstone for the Astros beyond Altuve’s tenure.
The Astros previously attempted, but failed, to secure an extension for Tucker in 2022, aimed at covering his arbitration seasons. Although Tucker agreed to a $12 million deal to avoid arbitration this season, his escalating performance suggests his arbitration costs for 2025 could soar close to $20 million.
Tucker’s achievements include winning his first Silver Slugger in 2023, boasting impressive offensive stats and leading the American League in RBIs. He’s also a two-time All-Star, a recipient of the Gold Glove in 2022, and has consistently ranked in the Top 20 in MVP voting for the past two seasons.
While the Astros aim to lock Tucker into a long-term deal, it will undoubtedly come at a significant cost.
