The Houston Astros’ offseason has been anything but quiet - and while the additions of Mike Burrows via trade and Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai in free agency have drawn intrigue, one of the more compelling storylines centers around All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes.
Paredes had been heading toward an arbitration hearing with the Astros, but that potential standoff is now off the table. According to reports, the two sides have agreed to a $9.35 million deal for the 2026 season, avoiding arbitration altogether. It’s a midpoint settlement between the Astros’ initial $8.75 million offer and Paredes’ $9.95 million filing - a compromise that keeps things clean and avoids the often-tense arbitration process.
The 26-year-old is coming off an All-Star campaign in 2025, though injuries limited his time on the field. Still, when healthy, Paredes showcased the kind of bat and defensive versatility that make him a valuable piece - not just for Houston, but potentially for other teams keeping tabs on the infielder’s situation.
And that’s where things get interesting.
While he’s now locked in for the upcoming season, Paredes’ name has surfaced in trade rumors throughout the winter. With two more years of club control after this season, the new $9.35 million salary gives teams a clearer picture of his short-term cost - and that kind of financial clarity can be a catalyst in trade talks. The Boston Red Sox are among the clubs reportedly showing interest, though nothing is imminent.
Paredes’ fit in Houston is complicated. The Astros’ infield is crowded, and while his bat plays, his position doesn’t seem locked in.
That kind of roster crunch often leads to movement, especially when a player has value - and Paredes does. He’s young, proven, and under team control.
That’s a trifecta most front offices covet.
For now, he remains in Houston, and the focus shifts to what he can deliver in 2026. If he can stay healthy and replicate the form that earned him All-Star honors, he’ll either solidify his place in the Astros’ lineup or boost his trade value even further.
Either way, the $9.35 million deal brings some clarity to what had been a murky part of the Astros’ offseason. Now, with arbitration behind him and spring training just around the corner, Paredes has a fresh opportunity to define his role - whether it’s in Houston or somewhere else.