“That was unexpected” – Alex Bregman unlikely to return as Astros pen Christian Walker to 3-year $60 million contract, fans react

Houston Astros sign first baseman Alex Bregman to a 3-year $60 million contract; physical signing pending.

“That was unexpected” – Alex Bregman unlikely to return as Astros pen Christian Walker to 3-year $60 million contract, fans react

Christian Walker and Alex Bregman [Image Credit: Burn City Sports/Chron]

The Houston Astros surprised the MLB world with their 3-year $60 million signing of first baseman Christian Walker. Walker’s era in Houston is about to begin as the 33-year-old has posted himself as one of the best in the game.

However, his signing with the team possibly leaves out third baseman and current free agent Alex Bregman out of the picture. Many were hopeful for a possible reunion between Bregman and the Astros but it seems unlikely that it’ll happen.

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Christian Walker’s signing was announced on Friday although, a physical deal is yet pending. The Astros are sure to be active in free agency as they added Walker, and traded star outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs for a package including Issac Paredes.

Furthermore, they may also lose Alex Bregman in the free agency but considering Walker, he can significantly manage both sides of the field. Walker will be part of the infield squad along with second baseman Jose Altuve and shortstop Jeremy Pena.

Following their addition and trades so far, the Houston Astros got blocked trying to acquire third baseman Nolan Arenado earlier this week. He waived his no-trade clause to look into further prospects in the free agency.

Social media reacts to Astros signing Christian Walker to $60 million deal

While many were happy to get Christian Walker in their lineup, several were upset to see Alex Bregman go. Although it is not yet official, it seems unlikely that the team will retain Bregman after this move. 

Christian Walker
Christian Walker [Image Credit: Burn City Sports]

One X user commented, “Wow that was unexpected,” while another questioned, “Does this mean Bregman is probably not coming back to Houston???” Some even commented about how the Yankees missed out on Walker while some thanked Arenado for rejecting the Astros.

The New York Yankees were reportedly interested in a trade for Christian Walker too. However, they did not want to lose a draft pick in compensation and let Walker walk away. In return, they signed Paul Goldschmidt to a $12.5 million contract for 1-year.

In return for getting Walker, the Astros will lose their 2nd and 5th pick in the 2025 draft along with $1 million from their international pool money. However, if Bregman ends up joining somewhere else, they’ll receive a pick in compensation.