Top Reports: Houston Astros Probe Massive Free Agent Market For Power Blockbuster Hitter

The Houston Astros are in the market for a power hitting first baseman and have a steady eye on the Mets’ Pete Alonso.

The Houston Astros are turning their attention to the free-agent market, looking for a power hitter to enhance their lineup for the 2025 season. First base has been a problematic area for them, and addressing it could be crucial for their chances of competing rather than simply watching from the sidelines. Pete Alonso, the strong-hitting first baseman for the New York Mets, is a top target for many teams, including Houston.

Alonso has been on the Astros’ radar for months. The team evaluated him during the trade deadline, but the Mets chose to keep him, a decision that paid off as his contributions helped them reach the National League Championship Series—a significant achievement.

However, Alonso’s future with the Mets is uncertain. New York is anticipated to make substantial investments this offseason, which could complicate Alonso’s situation. With finances allocated elsewhere, there’s a possibility they might let him go, and the Astros are paying attention. For Houston, Alonso would be an ideal addition, bringing power to the middle of their lineup and addressing their first base issues. Yet, as with all matters in baseball, acquiring him will come at a cost.

Pete Alonso played in all 175 of the Mets games this year, a franchise record!💙👏 pic.twitter.com/d5x4mEGk9O

— Mets Batflip (@metsbatflip1) October 21, 2024

The Astros already have a significant payroll, starting 2024 with a hefty $236millionaftermaintainingaround$ 184 million in recent years. Acquiring Alonso won’t be cheap, raising the question of whether the Astros’ ownership is willing to stretch their budget even further. Additionally, there’s the upcoming free agency of Alex Bregman, the team’s long-time third baseman. Retaining both Alonso and Bregman appears unlikely unless the team can find innovative ways to manage their finances.

Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller remarked, “They likely have room for only one.” The Astros must decide which corner infielder to upgrade. While Bregman remains an important part of the roster despite a noticeable decline in his walk rate, Alonso’s ability to hit 40 or more home runs a season could make him the more attractive option, particularly given the team’s pressing need at first base.

If the Astros decide not to pursue Alonso, they will need an alternative strategy. The team cannot continue relying on Jon Singleton or other players who struggle to contribute offensively. They’ve experienced the consequences of a lineup that isn’t performing well, and the prospect of another season with an unaddressed first-base situation is unappealing. While Alonso is the clear answer, the price to acquire him may lead Houston to explore other options.

It’s a careful balancing act for the Astros as they navigate free agency while aiming to keep a championship-worthy roster. Whether they will make a significant move this offseason is uncertain, but one thing is evident: they cannot continue with the current situation at first base.