In a stunning twist that has taken the baseball world by surprise, former Houston Astros superstar Carlos Correa has officially signed a surprise short-term deal — and it’s turning heads across Major League Baseball.
Multiple sources confirmed Saturday that Correa has agreed to a one-year contract with the San Diego Padres, returning to the National League in a bold move as he looks to re-establish himself among baseball’s elite.
The deal is reportedly worth $14.5 million, packed with performance incentives and a mutual option for a second year. It signals a fresh start for the 30-year-old shortstop, whose last two seasons with the Minnesota Twins were marred by injuries and inconsistency.
But this isn’t just any signing — it’s a reunion with the spotlight. And for Astros fans, it’s a bittersweet moment.
Correa, the former No. 1 overall pick in 2012, spent the first seven seasons of his MLB career with Houston, becoming a fan favorite, a Gold Glove defender, a World Series champion, and one of the emotional leaders of the team during its most dominant run.
His clutch postseason performances, fiery presence, and memorable walk-off moments made him an icon in H-Town. While his departure in free agency to Minnesota was emotional, many hoped he might one day return. Instead, he’s heading west.
The Padres, known for making splashy moves, are taking a calculated gamble on Correa as they aim to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 campaign. With Xander Bogaerts potentially shifting positions and Fernando Tatis Jr. roaming the outfield, Correa could slide right into the heart of the infield and bring leadership to a clubhouse searching for identity.
Correa released a statement through his agent:
“I’m grateful for the journey so far, and I’m ready for this next chapter. San Diego presents a fresh challenge, and I’m here to compete and help win. That’s all I’ve ever wanted to do.”
While Astros fans will always consider Correa a part of the franchise’s golden era, his latest move marks a new beginning — and possibly, one last push to remind the league that he’s still got plenty left in the tank.
Done deal. Fresh chapter. Same fire.
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