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MLB Trade Deadline: Astros Bring Back Carlos Correa in Shocking Deal with Twins
Aug
In a blockbuster move just before the MLB trade deadline, the Houston Astros are bringing back a familiar face: Carlos Correa.
According to MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart, the Astros have acquired Correa from the Minnesota Twins, reuniting with the star shortstop who spent his first seven MLB seasons in Houston. However, he won’t return to his original position. Instead, per The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, Correa will shift to third base to replace Isaac Paredes, who is likely out for the season with a torn hamstring. This marks the first time in Correa’s career he will play somewhere other than shortstop.
Correa confirmed to McTaggart that Houston was the only team he would have waived his no-trade clause for:
“I let them know there was only one team I would allow that to happen.”
Earlier reports suggested trade talks between Houston and Minnesota had stalled due to contract concerns—specifically, the Twins’ reluctance to cover roughly $50 million remaining on Correa’s deal. Clearly, both sides found common ground in the final hours.
A Homecoming for Houston’s Former Star
Correa, the first overall pick in the 2012 draft, debuted in 2015 and quickly became a franchise cornerstone. He won Rookie of the Year, earned a Gold Glove, and helped Houston win the 2017 World Series—though that title later became controversial.
After the 2021 season, Correa left for a high-paying deal with the Twins. His current contract includes three more guaranteed years averaging $32 million annually, along with four team-option years after 2028. This trade could keep him in Houston well into the next decade.
Astros Stay Aggressive at Deadline
The Correa deal is one of several bold moves by Houston, who lead the AL West with a 62–47 record. Earlier, they acquired Ramón Urías from the Orioles, likely as a utility option. Minutes after landing Correa, they added Jesús Sánchez from the Marlins to boost the outfield.
With under two hours left in the trade window, Houston remains active. They’ve been linked to Merrill Kelly, Dylan Cease, and Sandy Alcantara—each a major potential rotation upgrade.
Analysis: A Perfect Fit in Houston
Correa’s return gives Houston a clear short-term upgrade and a long-term solution at third base. When Paredes returns in 2026, he could shift to first base, further solidifying the infield.
Interestingly, Correa nearly played third base in 2022 when he signed with the Mets—before that deal fell through due to medical concerns. Now, he’ll play next to Jeremy Peña, his former understudy, whom he mentored during Peña’s rookie year.
This is more than a roster move. It’s a symbolic reunion between a team and one of its greatest modern stars. And for the Astros, it might be the edge they need for another deep playoff run.
Copy Right By Hornnastee
