The Houston Astros and infielder Isaac Paredes avoided an arbitration hearing Tuesday by agreeing to a one-year contract worth $9.35 million for the 2026 season, with a club option for 2027.
The agreement was reached just days before Paredes was scheduled to appear at an arbitration hearing Friday. The salary landed at the midpoint between Paredes’ filing of $9.95 million and the Astros’ counter of $8.75 million. The deal also includes a $13.35 million club option for 2027, which becomes a mutual option if Paredes finishes in the top 10 of MVP voting during the 2026 season.
Productive First Season in Houston
Paredes, who turns 27 later this month, delivered a strong debut season with Houston after arriving in the December 2024 blockbuster trade that sent Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs. Despite missing nearly two months with a significant hamstring injury suffered in July while running to first base in Seattle, Paredes was named an All-Star and finished the year slashing .254/.352/.458 with 20 home runs and 53 RBIs across 102 games.
Before the injury, Paredes was enjoying an exceptional first half, posting a .259/.359/.470 line with a team-high 19 home runs and 50 RBIs in 94 games, while ranking among league leaders in walks. He opted for rehabilitation rather than surgery and returned late in September.
Unclear Role Entering Spring Training
Despite the production, Paredes enters spring training without a defined everyday position. The reacquisition of Carlos Correa at last year’s trade deadline pushed him off third base, while Jose Altuve’s return to second base and Christian Walker’s presence at first base further crowd the infield.
Astros general manager Dana Brown indicated Paredes will work at second base this spring, though he may not participate in the World Baseball Classic after playing winter ball in Mexico.
Trade Speculation Continues
Trade rumors have followed Paredes throughout the offseason as Houston evaluates its infield depth, though Brown has repeatedly said he does not feel compelled to move any of the group.