Houston Astros Secure All-Star Infielder Isaac Paredes with $9.35 Million, 1-Year Contract
The Houston Astros and All-Star infielder Isaac Paredes have successfully avoided a salary arbitration hearing, reaching a one-year agreement worth $9.35 million. This contract marks a significant step in their professional relationship, as it falls between the $9.95 million Paredes requested and the $8.75 million the team initially offered. The agreement also includes a $13.35 million team option for the 2027 season, which will become a mutual option if Paredes finishes among the top 10 in MVP voting this year. Additionally, Paredes can earn a $50,000 bonus each year for making the All-Star team.
Paredes, who will turn 27 on February 18, had a remarkable 2025 season, hitting a career-high .258 with 20 home runs and 53 RBIs in 102 games. His performance earned him his second All-Star selection, but he was sidelined due to a strained right hamstring between July 19 and September 19. Despite this setback, Paredes has proven his worth as a six-year major league veteran, boasting a .237 average with 92 home runs and 287 RBIs across his time with Detroit (2020-21), Tampa Bay (2022-24), and the Chicago Cubs (2024). The Astros acquired Paredes in a December 2024 trade that sent outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Cubs.
Paredes is eligible for arbitration next winter and will become a free agent after the 2027 World Series. This contract extension ensures his continued presence with the Astros, providing stability and continuity to the team's infield.