The Houston Astros are facing a decision regarding their third baseman, Alex Bregman’s, contract negotiations reaching the $200 million mark. Recently, sources within the organization revealed that they are considering Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Willy Adames as a potential alternative option in this scenario. Adames, recognized for his fielding skills and reliable hitting abilities at the bat, has become an appealing choice for the Houston Astros. His age and flexibility in playing different positions, as well as his previous playoff participation, could help fill in any gaps left by Bregman if he leaves.

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However, this revelation has sparked a debate: Are the Astros prepared to invest heavily in a player like Adames? “In the case of Adames if the Astros are going to spend that kind of money, why not invest it in Bregman, a face of their franchise?” The argument likely hinges on a few key factors. First, that would carry him into his mid-30s. Historically, teams have grown more cautious about offering large contracts to players entering their 30s, fearing a decline in performance during the back end of such deals.

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So, the Astros may see Adames, who is two years younger than Bregman, as a player delivering similar results at a potentially lower cost and with less long-term risk. Secondly, the positional versatility Adames offers could be a factor. has played exclusively at shortstop but is athletic enough to transition to third base if needed. This flexibility could allow the Houston Astros to reconfigure their infield depending on other roster needs.

Alex Bregman, while a superb defender at third base, doesn’t offer that same adaptability. However, this approach has its risks. Bregman isn’t just a stat sheet; he’s the emotional heartbeat of the team and a fan favorite. Letting him walk in favor of a less familiar player like Adames could alienate a loyal fan base and disrupt clubhouse chemistry. Bregman has been instrumental in the Astros’ rise to dominance, and many would argue that this kind of leadership and institutional knowledge is irreplaceable.

Houston’s history of letting stars walk

The Houston Astros have become known for making tough choices regarding keeping their players around. They often lean towards maintaining financial flexibility rather than sentimental attachments to the player’s history with the team. Lately, they’ve allowed star players like  and Carlos Correa to leave the agency without matching the paying deals they received elsewhere.

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Although these decisions initially faced criticism from fans, Houston’s success in grooming talents or acquiring replacements like Jeremy Peña to fill in for Correa has been instrumental in keeping them competitive year after year. This calculated approach has become a hallmark of the Astros’ front office under ownership. However, the departures of Springer and Correa highlighted the emotional toll these choices take on fans and the clubhouse.

While the Houston Astros’ success has softened the blow, it raises the question of whether losing Alex Bregman, one of the team’s most recognizable faces, would create a different kind of disruption. As they face this pivotal decision, the Astros must weigh their track record of success against the unique leadership and legacy Bregman brings to the team—whether they commit to him or pivot to alternatives like Willy Adames, the choice will leave a lasting impact on the team’s future and its connection to an invested fan base.