The Houston Astros, fearing that power-hitting third baseman Isaac Paredes will miss the remainder of the season with his strained hamstring, are interested in bringing in one of their jilted lovers to replace him.
The Astros, a high-ranking executive told USA TODAY Sports, are exploring the possibility of acquiring Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa or St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, while also remaining engaged with the Arizona Diamondbacks for All-Star third baseman Eugenio Suárez. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity since trade talks are ongoing.
The possibility of Correa’s potential return is fascinating considering he was a homegrown product, and led the Astros to four division titles, three pennants and a World Series title. The Astros offered him a five-year, $160 million as a free agent after the 2021 season, but he departed for the Minnesota Twins. He signed a three-year, $105.3 million contract before opting out after one season. He then agreed to deals with the San Francisco Giants and the New York Mets, but both contracts were voided after his physical, leading him back to Minnesota on a six-year, $200 million contract.
Correa, 30, still has $103.5 million remaining on his contract through 2028 with four club options. He also has a full no-trade clause. Yet, he has told friends that he would be willing to waive his no-trade for the opportunity to return to Houston, where he and his family still reside in the offseason. The Astros surely would demand the Twins to pay a significant portion of the contract in trade talks.
