Now that Francisco Lindor has signed his extension, the free agent shortstop class of 2021-22 now has a baseline for their own contracts. This is particularly the case for those players who are receiving overtures of a possible extension from their teams, such as Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa.
The Astros have attempted to engage Correa and his representatives in extension talks. However, Houston’s shortstop does not feel that they are serious about keeping him around.
Correa: "There were not really any negotiations. The way I feel is it's another year with the Houston Astros and I'm going to go out there and do my best and try to bring a championship to the city."
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) April 1, 2021
Carlos Correa sounds as though he will be leaving Houston Astros after this season
According to Correa, the Astros have made a pair of offers. The first offer was for six years at $120 million, and a second offer for five years and $125 million. However, if Correa and his representatives made a counter offer, it sounds as though Houston disregarded it.
Locking in Correa would be a gamble for Houston. He has appeared in at least 110 games just once in the past four seasons as he has battled numerous injuries. While he was healthy last season, the shortened 60 game schedule was not exactly something that would prove durability.
There is no questioning Correa’s talent when he has been on the diamond. He has produced a .276/.354/.480 batting line in his 2588 plate appearances, hitting 107 homers and 128 doubles. Defensively, he has saved 31 runs at short, establishing himself as one of the better all around players at the position.
Given his productivity, it is understandable that Correa would be looking for more of a commitment from Houston. Likewise, given the questions about his durability, it is understandable that the Astros would be hesitant to sign him to a long term deal at the amount he feels he deserves.
Carlos Correa does not feel that the Houston Astros are serious about keeping him around. It seems as though he is destined for free agency.