Alex Bregman Potential Position Change Signals Uncertainty About His Astros Future

Alex Bregman future with the Houston Astros may be entering a critical phase, as reports from the recent MLB GM Meetings hint at a potential position change for the star infielder. Fresh off winning his first Gold Glove for his exceptional defense at third base, Bregman’s future with Houston—or perhaps another team—has become a major talking point.

Bregman’s elite performance at third in 2024 has solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top defensive third basemen. Advanced metrics from Baseball Savant, FanGraphs, and Baseball Prospectus rank him among the best, with career-high marks in Outs Above Average (OAA) and Fielding Run Value (FRV). Despite his stellar season, his agent, Scott Boras, noted that multiple teams have expressed interest in Bregman as a second baseman—a move he’s open to, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale.

Why a Potential Move Makes Sense

Strategically, Boras’s openness to a position switch could be a smart move. Transitioning to second base could boost Bregman’s appeal in free agency, widening his market and potentially increasing the value of his next contract. While his experience at second base is limited, he does have some history there from his early MLB seasons, and his college background as a shortstop adds to his defensive versatility.

However, the Astros already have a cornerstone player at second base: franchise icon Jose Altuve, who is signed through 2029. This makes a position change within the Astros organization unlikely for Bregman, but it does create pressure on Houston’s front office to secure his future amid rising interest. Astros General Manager Dana Brown has emphasized how crucial retaining Bregman is to the team, stating, “I don’t want this thing to drag on. He knows that we want him back. Scott [Boras] knows that we want him back.”

Implications for the Market

Interest in Bregman as a second baseman comes amid a free-agent market crowded with middle infield talent. Players like Willy Adames and Ha-Seong Kim are already in high demand. However, Bregman stands out as the premier third baseman available, a status that could be advantageous if he remains committed to the position.

From a practical standpoint, a position change could also be beneficial. Bregman’s arm strength, a concern following recent elbow surgery, could be less strained at second base, possibly extending his defensive effectiveness.

Houston’s Chances of Retaining Bregman

Despite other teams’ interest, the Astros remain optimistic. Brown’s comments reflect the organization’s strong connection to Bregman, who has played a key role in their success. “We think we have a really good chance of bringing him back,” Brown told reporters, signaling that the Astros are prepared to negotiate to keep Bregman at third.

As free agency approaches, the prospect of a position switch and the open market add intrigue to Bregman’s future. Whether he stays in Houston or joins another team, Bregman’s next move will be closely watched, with potential ripple effects across the league.