Brian McTaggart, Astros beat reporter for MLB.com, joins The Matt Thomas Show to give the latest updates from Houston Astros spring training at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches in Florida.
At the conclusion of this upcoming season, third baseman Alex Bregman will be a free agent. However, the Astros have the ability to extend Bregman. "I don't think there is [an offer] right now," but "I would expect one in the next four weeks," McTaggart said. Pitcher Justin Verlander reported to spring training with right shoulder issues and has yet to face hitters. Verlander is taking it "day-to-day" and "things could change," but he "seems like he's progressing pretty well." The Astros signed pitcher Josh Hader to a five-year, $95 million contract last month, and many speculated whether Hader's addition to the team would ruffle Ryan Pressly's feathers as Hader would become the new closer, but McTaggart says it hasn't been an issue in the clubhouse. "Pressly wants to win as much as anybody." McTaggart also comments on designated hitter Yordan Álvarez, who "wants to play more left field," and Jake Meyers' return to center field.