What’s next for the Astros after Correa’s departure?

With Trevor Story signing in Boston, the Astros are likely looking to Jeremy Peña.

If Correa departed, many believed that Houston would sign Trevor Story to a shorter, cheaper deal. I expected this to happen as well, considering the history of owner Jim Crane’s deals, but as we know, Story wound up signing a six-year deal with the Boston Red Sox.

I assume that Crane probably thought six years was too many for a 29-year-old, and I can’t say I necessarily disagree. It is also unclear how Story will fare outside of the high altitude of Coors Field.

It’s reported that Crane and general manager James Click did not budge from their offer to Correa at the beginning of the offseason, which was five years, $160 million. Also, Jeremy Peña was able to choose No. 3 at the start of spring training, which would likely be reserved for 26-man rostered player.

What do these two facts mean? I’m just speculating here, but to me, these two facts lead me to believe that the front office sees Peña as the shortstop of the Astros for now. I’m obviously not at spring training nor at Triple-A games, but they must see something from the 24-year-old that makes them think he will compete in the Major Leagues soon.

If Peña isn’t where he needs to be at the trade deadline, don’t be surprised if the Astros make a trade for a veteran shortstop on a non-contender in the last year of his contract, which could potentially even be Correa himself.