Home / Sports / Astros Third Base Dilemma: Correa vs. Paredes for 2027
Astros Third Base Dilemma: Correa vs. Paredes for 2027
18 Oct
Summary
- Carlos Correa's injury shifted Isaac Paredes to everyday third base.
- Astros third basemen ranked third in MLB OPS and fifth in WAR.
- Correa's ankle injury will require recovery until at least December 2026.
The Houston Astros' 2026 season saw a significant shift at third base due to injuries. Carlos Correa's return at the 2025 trade deadline had initially displaced Isaac Paredes. However, Correa sustained a season-ending ankle injury in early May 2026, leading to Paredes becoming the primary third baseman for the remainder of the season.
Paredes delivered a strong performance, playing 155 games and ranking second among Astros hitters in OPS-plus (127) and RBIs (94). He also demonstrated exceptional plate discipline, averaging the most pitches per plate appearance among qualified MLB hitters and maintaining a low strikeout rate while hitting 25 home runs.
Correa's season was cut short by a torn peroneus brevis tendon in his left ankle on May 5, 2026. Despite attempts to return, his recovery timeline indicates he will not be fully healed until at least December 2026, raising questions about his readiness for the 2027 season.
With both Correa and Paredes under club control for 2027, the Astros face an offseason decision regarding their third baseman. Correa, signed through 2028, will have the Astros pay a portion of his 2027 salary. Paredes is entering his final year of arbitration eligibility, with a team option for 2027.
