3 Shortstops The Astros Could Target If Carlos Correa Walks

It seems probable that Carlos Correa will be wearing a different jersey for the 2022 campaign. He has been linked to multiple teams, but he opted to not sign a contract before the lockout began. If he does in fact leave, the Astros have a few free agent shortstop options they could consider as his replacement. 

Trevor Story: It already has been reported that the Astros have expressed interest in Trevor Story this offseason. When it comes to finding a replacement who is close to Correa's level, he is the best option. During the 2021 campaign, Story had 24 home runs, 75 RBIs and a .251 batting average with the Colorado Rockies. That was a down year for his standards, but when seeing as how he's a two-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger Award winner, he is due for a bounce back year in 2022. Perhaps it'll be in Houston. 

Jonathan Villar: Due to many of the top shortstops already finding news home this free agency season, the quality does a drop a bit after Story. Yet, Jonathan Villar could still be a solid addition for them, though. In 142 games with the New York Mets last season, he had 18 home runs, 42 RBIs and a .249 batting average. He would add a little bit of pop to the Astros' lineup and comes with a lot of overall MLB experience. Furthermore, he did previously play for Houston from 2013 to 2015.

Andrelton Simmons: Andrelton Simmons could be a solid short-term option for the Astros if the worst case scenario occurs. The 32-year-old is a magnificent fielder, as evidenced by his four Gold Glove Awards and six Fielding Bible Awards. In 131 games with the Minnesota Twins this season, he had three home runs, 31 RBIs and a .223 batting average. It was a down year for the veteran, but he has the potential to rebound. 

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