The Astros’ offseason begins with the pursuit of George Springer

The Astros’ offseason begins with the pursuit of George Springer, but it could prove difficult for the franchise to keep their star in Houston.

The Houston Astros‘ offseason technically began after the defeat to the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series. But to me, it begins with the pursuit of re-signing All-star center fielder George Springer.

For Houston fans, this might be a hard offseason/season to accept. Not only were the Astros a game away from their third World Series appearance in four years after everything they went through, but they might’ve witnessed the beginning of the end for some beloved Astros players. Names such as Michael Brantley, Roberto Osuna and Josh Reddick are all slated to hit the open market alongside Springer this offseason, but let’s face it: this is about Springer. The 2017 World Series MVP. The three time All-star, and one of, if not the best, postseason players this franchise has ever seen. And after hitting .270 with 174 career homers, 458 RBI’s, and being one of the best leadoff power hitters of all time for the Astros, many have been speculating that this is the end.

But Houston has not given up quite yet. The Astros have extended a qualifying offer to Springer and his agent Boras to review of $18.9 million. Now, that’s a significant amount of money especially with Carlos Correa’s free agency looming and money already tied into our two aces. But Springer is expected to reject it and if he signs elsewhere, it allows the Astros to get a draft pick in return. It will be interesting to see how far the franchise goes to keep one of its cornerstone players in town when the price could very well be nine figures.

The past seven years have been some of the greatest in Astros history, and that’s in large part because of Springer. After losing 100+ in three consecutive seasons, rooting for the home team was easier said than done but when Springer, Correa and McCullers came to the majors, everything changed. It will be tough for the Astros to keep Springer around with the others, but no matter where he plays in 2021, his impact on the organization has been instrumental.