Astros’ competition for Carlos Correa, explained

The Houston Astros remain in on Carlos Correa, as they could bring back their two-time All-Star and World Series champion. But what’s stopping them?

The Astros reportedly offered Correa a five-year, $160 million deal before the MLB lockout. While that averages out to about what Correa would want — likely to be near 10 years and over $300 million — it’s not nearly enough.

Houston hasn’t been willing to go to a full decade-long contract. Correa is 27 years old, so by the time said contract would be over, he’d be in his late-30’s and deteriorating significantly.

For now, he’s one of the best defensive shortstops in baseball, if not the best. He backs that up with solid offensive numbers. Last season, he slashed .279/.366/.485.

Yankees rumors: Does Carlos Correa make sense?

The Yankees still have a hole at shortstop, and fans are anxious to fill it with a player of Correa’s caliber. He’s the best shortstop left on the market.

The only argument for New York’s sake would be if they’d rather sign Trevor Story to a shorter, less lucrative contract.

Brian Cashman and Co. have yet to make a major splash in free agency. The lockout cut those plans short, and perhaps could help the Yankees find a more team-friendly deal for a player like Correa or Story.

Cubs rumors: Will Chicago sign Carlos Correa?

Correa has been linked to the Cubs for the last few weeks, but he remains a little out of their price range, assuming he still wants something north of $300 million.

The Cubs are in a retooling of sorts, and Correa is open to any situation, even if it’s a rebuild.

Tigers rumors: Could Detroit add Carlos Correa?

This one feels like a no. The Tigers signed Javy Baez already, so the shortstop position is theoretically taken care of. They also offered Correa 10 years and $275 million, only to be turned down. Correa wants more money to sign in MoTown. Assuming that doesn’t change, Al Avila’s stance won’t change.