Astros "Optimistic" About Ongoing Extension Talks With Young Star

The Houston Astros got a big extension done earlier this spring with one of their key starting pitchers, and now they appear to be making progress on a long-term deal with young slugger Kyle Tucker. 

General manager Dana Brown confirmed that the team is involved in extension negotiations with Tucker's agent. “We’re optimistic," said Brown. "We think we can get something done.” 

On the Astros' radio broadcast, Dana Brown said negotiations with Kyle Tucker regarding a contract extension would "most likely" be tabled in the regular season, if nothing gets done in spring training.

— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) March 5, 2023

But he did go on to say on the team's radio broadcast that negotiations with Tucker would "most likely" have a shelf life that would expire on Opening Day, and that talks would not take place during the regular season. 

Tucker is one of the great young outfielders in the game, with 30-30 potential. The 26-year-old has blasted exactly 30 homers in each of the past two seasons, and upped his stolen base total to 25 last year. He has an OPS around .850 over the past two years, and made his first All-Star game in '22. He finished the year with 30 HR, 107 RBIs, 25 SBs, a .257 average and a 128 OPS+.

The Astros handed out a 5-year, $64M extension to starter Cristian Javier this offseason, and are looking to lock up more of their young stars. Framber Valdez's name has been mentioned on their wish list as well. 

Photo: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports