After the Houston Astros fielded a payroll in 2024 that triggered MLB’s competitive balance tax, incurring the penalty for the first time amid owner Jim Crane’s tenure, Crane was asked if the team would consider overstepping the tax threshold again in 2025.

The Astros still appear optimistic that something can get done with a pitchers and catchers due to report in less than a month. Houston manager Joe Espada was asked about Bregman last week and revealed that he considered the player a friend and had been in contact with him throughout the offseason.