The Astros reported to camp on Thursday but a clubhouse staple was missing.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Some members of the Houston Astros reported to the organization’s Spring Training facility in West Palm Beach, Florida on Thursday but there was something different this year than years past.
Alex Bregman wasn’t there after he reportedly signed a three-year deal with the Boston Red Sox.
Players, coaches and even the team’s general manager all noted Bregman’s absence was palpable.
Astros Manager Joe Espada spoke to KHOU 11’s Jason Bristol about the news.
“I’m happy for Alex. I know the news isn’t official yet but I’m happy for him. He made his decision so now it’s time for all of us just to move forward, turn the page,” Espada said.
Espada moved on quickly, saying he’s excited for this year’s team.
“I want to talk about the guys in camp. I want to talk about our team. We have a really good team, despite us losing these two great players (Bregman and Tucker), we have some really good players in camp. I’m excited about the young players and I’m ready to get on the field and get to work,” Espada said.
Astros General Manager Dana Brown was a little shorter in his response to a question about the Bregman news.
“I heard about it. I don’t think it’s official yet. If it’s true, I’m happy for Bregman. He had a great run here,” Brown said.
Brown was also asked about the team’s pitching rotation and if he sees a need for improvement.
“We have a strong five and then we have a four-man depth that’s going to be at Triple-A. I always tell you guys I’m in the market for pitching. If something comes up in terms of a trade or something … but, ultimately, I feel really good about our rotation right now. I think we have a really strong five that matches up well in our division and that can get us deep into the postseason and we have depth in Triple-A so I feel good about it,” Brown said.
Chas McCormick, Jake Meyers on Bregman’s departure
McCormick said Bregman will be missed and even went as far as calling him one of the best teammates he’s ever had.
“Even off the field … every day, like, ready to win. Ready to compete. He’s not about himself, he’ll help the team — anybody,” McCormick said.
He went on to talk about Bregman’s success at Fenway Park and wished him the best.
Jake Meyers echoed McCormick’s sentiments about Bregman. He said the changes can be felt throughout the clubhouse.
“It’ll be different but I’m excited about the new guys we have in here and I think we have a lot of really great players,” Meyers said. “It’s different. That’s all I’ve known since I’ve been up here. He’s a great leader, great teammate, learned a lot from him. Same with Tuck (Kyle Tucker). Unbelievable teammate and learned a lot from him, as well and going to miss just hanging out with them off the field as well.”
Framber Valdez enters last year of team control
Valdez is entering his last year of team control with the Astros. He will be an unrestricted free agent next year, which sometimes can lead to increased pressure to perform in order to earn more money on the open market.
Through a translator, Valdez said not much will change for him, however. He said he will keep working hard like he always does.
He also said he hasn’t been approached by the Astros management about an extension.
Astros sign Guillorme
The Astros announced they signed veteran infielder Luis Guillorme to a minor league contract. He was at the team facility in Florida on the opening day of Spring Training.
Guillorme, 30, split his 2024 season between the Braves, Angels and Diamondbacks while hitting .205 in 79 games. He played all infield positions except first base last season.
He will wear No. 0, the team said.