In a surprise move just before the MLB trade deadline, the Houston Astros have brought back Carlos Correa, sending shockwaves through baseball fans.
The Minnesota Twins agreed to send Correa — along with $33 million — back to Houston in exchange for a low-level pitching prospect, Matt Mikulski. The trade has left Astros fans hopeful, while Twins fans are left questioning the team’s priorities.
Full Trade Details
Houston Astros receive:
– 3B Carlos Correa
– $33 million in salary coverage
Minnesota Twins receive:
– LHP Matt Mikulski
Astros Grade: A
Let’s be honest — this deal is a bargain for Houston. Correa might not be the same star he was during his first stint with the Astros, but even a slightly diminished version of him is still a solid addition.
Why It Works for Houston
Correa is under contract through 2028, with potential options that could carry him to 2032. The Twins are covering $33 million of his salary, leaving the Astros with just $71 million to pay over the next few seasons. That’s a manageable price for a veteran player with championship experience.
What’s Changed Since His Prime?
Correa isn’t hitting the ball like he used to. While he still makes solid contact (with over 47% of his batted balls above 95 mph), the launch angle of his hard hits has dropped year by year — from 15.6° in 2019 to just 7.1° in 2025. That means more grounders and fewer home runs. He’s on pace for only 11 home runs over 150 games this season — the lowest of his career.
Can He Play Third Base?
Although Correa has never played third base in the majors or minors, the Astros plan to use him there. It’s not ideal, but Correa’s strong arm and fielding skills should eventually help him adjust. Astros fans may need to be patient while he learns the position during an important part of the season.
Twins Grade: F
This trade isn’t about improving the team — it’s about cutting costs.
A Salary Dump Disguised as a Trade
The Twins gave up their star shortstop and received Matt Mikulski, a 26-year-old pitcher with a career 6.46 ERA who hasn’t played above High-A. That’s not a rebuilding move — it’s a financial decision. And it’s a bad one.
The team is clearly trying to lower costs, possibly to make the franchise more attractive to buyers, as it’s been quietly on the market. Fans were already frustrated with the club’s tight budget and weak TV revenue — this move just adds fuel to that fire.
The Astros made a smart, low-risk move to boost their playoff push by bringing back a fan favourite. Even if Correa isn’t the same slugger from a few years ago, his experience and presence could still help the team.
The Twins, on the other hand, look like they’re more focused on saving money than winning games — and that’s a hard pill for fans to swallow.
