The Houston Astros have long made re-signing Alex Bregman their top priority, but as he remains a free agent, the team is exploring contingency options for the possibility that Bregman might sign elsewhere. One alternative the Astros are reportedly considering is Christian Walker, a veteran first baseman with a proven track record.

Despite ongoing talks since the hiring of General Manager Dana Brown in January 2023, the Houston Astros have yet to reach an agreement with Bregman on a new deal. Brown made it clear from the start that securing extensions for key players like Bregman was a priority. While contracts were finalized with Jose Altuve and Cristian Javier, Bregman, along with fellow star Kyle Tucker, has not yet agreed to terms.

The Astros have made their intentions clear, with both Brown and owner Jim Crane expressing a strong desire to retain Bregman over the past two years. However, the negotiations have not resulted in a deal, and the 2024 season is now winding down without a resolution.

A major factor in the Astros’ hesitation to offer a significant contract extension is their long-standing reluctance to make big-money deals. While Altuve’s $151 million extension in 2018 remains their largest commitment, it is still a relatively modest contract in comparison to the massive deals handed out to other stars around the league. Houston has allowed players like Gerrit Cole, George Springer, and Carlos Correa to leave in pursuit of larger contracts, signaling a preference for more conservative financial commitments.

Adding complexity to the situation is Houston’s short-term payroll concerns. The Astros paid the competitive balance tax (CBT) in 2024 for the first time, with their projected CBT for 2025 hovering near $234 million, just shy of the $241 million threshold. In an October interview, Dana Brown noted that the team’s finances might be tight, and Crane emphasized the need for a careful, measured approach to spending. This financial tightrope could be a limiting factor in what the Astros can offer Bregman, who is reportedly seeking a deal in the range of $200 million.

Reports indicate the Astros have extended a six-year, $156 million offer to Bregman, which would surpass their previous record but may not be enough to compete with other teams on the market. Clubs like the Blue Jays, Phillies, and Red Sox are reportedly interested in Bregman’s services, and MLB Trade Rumors has suggested he could secure a deal worth up to $182 million or more. This growing uncertainty about Bregman’s future has prompted the Astros to consider other options, with Christian Walker emerging as a potential fallback.

First base has been a weak spot for the Astros in recent seasons, particularly after the disappointing tenure of José Abreu. Abreu struggled in 2024, ultimately being released midway through the season, and Jon Singleton, who stepped in, was competent but not exceptional. Walker, who will turn 34 in March, has been a standout performer at first base for the Arizona Diamondbacks over the past three seasons. In 2022, Walker hit 36 home runs in 160 games, following up with 33 home runs in 157 games in 2023. His 2024 campaign was slightly derailed by injury, but he still managed to hit 26 home runs in 130 games. Over these seasons, Walker posted a solid wRC+ between 119 and 122, with a combined .250/.332/.481 slash line.

Defensively, Walker has been outstanding, earning 43 Defensive Runs Saved and 57 Outs Above Average over his career. His 3.9 WAR in 2022 and 2023 shows his value as an all-around contributor. While his production in 2024 dipped slightly due to injury, his overall performance remains impressive.

Walker, however, is not without his risks. As he approaches his mid-30s, his market value is expected to be somewhat limited. MLB Trade Rumors has speculated that he could secure a three-year deal worth around $60 million, though a two-year deal could also be possible. However, this potential acquisition is complicated by the fact that Walker rejected a qualifying offer from the Diamondbacks, meaning the Astros would forfeit their second- and fifth-best draft picks in the upcoming draft, as well as $1 million in international bonus pool space, should they sign him.

This financial penalty is something the Astros must weigh carefully, especially after their experience with José Abreu, who failed to live up to expectations in 2024. The team may be hesitant to sign another aging first baseman to a long-term contract, especially with Abreu still on the books for another year.

In summary, while re-signing Alex Bregman remains the Astros’ top priority, the team is exploring other options in the event that Bregman departs. Christian Walker offers a solid fallback option at first base, but the Astros must consider both the financial implications and potential drawbacks of adding another veteran player at the position. As the offseason progresses, it will be fascinating to see how the Astros navigate these critical decisions.