The Houston Astros traded for Carlos Correa trade from the Minnesota Twins in a massive 2025 MLB trade deadline move. Learn about the shocking initial offer, financial details, and what this deal means for both teams.
Houston Astros Land Carlos Correa trade in Blockbuster Trade: Inside the Deal and the Wild Initial Offer
The 2025 MLB trade deadline delivered fireworks when the Houston Astros completed a blockbuster trade to bring back Carlos Correa from the Minnesota Twins. The one-for-one swap saw left-handed pitching prospect Matt Mikulski heading to the Twins in exchange for Correa, with Minnesota covering $33 million of Correa’s remaining contract.
But the most jaw-dropping detail? The Astros’ initial trade offer looked completely different—and far more ambitious—than the final agreement. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the first proposal included an outfielder from the Twins and $50 million in salary coverage. Here’s everything you need to know about this monumental deal, the surprising negotiations behind it, and what comes next for both franchises.
Astros Bring Back a Familiar Face in Carlos Correa
Carlos Correa trade, a cornerstone of the Astros’ championship runs in the late 2010s and early 2020s, returns to Houston after leaving for Minnesota in free agency. This reunion gives the Astros a proven postseason performer and defensive anchor at shortstop as they push for another World Series run.
The cost? Houston surrendered Matt Mikulski, a promising 24-year-old left-handed pitcher who was ranked among their top-20 prospects. For the Astros, this trade was about adding an elite veteran presence, while the Twins prioritized shedding payroll and acquiring young pitching depth.
Carlos Correa Trade: Initial Trade Offer Was a Stunner
Before finalizing the one-for-one trade, Astros owner Jim Crane reportedly pitched an aggressive opening offer to the Twins. Nightengale reported:
“Crane returned home and had Astros GM Dana Brown telephone the Twins to inquire if they would be willing to trade Correa and one of their outfielders to the Astros. Oh, and could they pick up about $50 million of the remaining $103 million on Correa’s contract, too? The Twins laughed and hung up.”
This original proposal would have seen the Twins eating $50 million instead of $33 million and included a Minnesota outfielder along with Correa. The Twins understandably balked at the offer, given the massive financial hit and the additional player.
Which Twins Outfielder Did Houston Want?
While the exact name wasn’t disclosed, speculation centers on two logical targets:
- Matt Wallner (27): A left-handed power bat who fits Houston’s need for outfield depth and balance.
- Trevor Larnach (28): Another lefty with upside, making him an intriguing trade chip.
Harrison Bader was also dealt at the deadline, but to the Phillies, and his right-handed profile didn’t match Houston’s needs.
Instead of landing an outfielder from Minnesota, Houston pivoted and traded for Jesus Sanchez from the Miami Marlins to fill that role.
Financial Impact of the Carlos Correa trade
Here’s how the money breaks down:
- Correa’s contract: $103 million remaining
- Twins cover: $33 million
- Astros owe: $70 million
The initial offer would have saved Houston an extra $17 million while also bringing back an outfielder, making it an even more lopsided proposal in their favor.
Astros Also Considered Adding Christian Walker
Interestingly, Houston briefly explored including first baseman Christian Walker in the Correa deal. However, with Walker still owed $40 million, the Twins—focused on payroll relief—had no interest in absorbing another large contract.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for Both Teams
For the Astros:
- Reacquire a franchise icon and elite shortstop
- Strengthen their lineup with a proven October performer
- Boost team morale and fan excitement ahead of the postseason
For the Twins:
- Clear significant salary from their books
- Add Matt Mikulski, a promising left-handed arm
- Open flexibility for future roster moves
What This Means for the AL Playoff Race
With Carlos Correa trade a back, Houston immediately becomes one of the top contenders in the American League. His postseason pedigree, combined with a veteran roster, makes the Astros dangerous heading into October.
The Twins, meanwhile, are signaling a soft reset. By moving Correa and some salary, they create room to invest in younger talent and position themselves for future success.
Key Takeaways from the Astros–Twins Carlos Correa trade
- Final deal: Carlos Correa trade → Astros | Matt Mikulski → Twins
- Twins cover $33M of Correa’s contract (Astros pay $70M)
- Initial Astros offer: Correa + Twins OF + $50M salary relief
- Astros settle for Jesus Sanchez as their left-handed outfield bat
- Christian Walker was briefly discussed but never included
FAQs About the Carlos Correa Trade
1. How much of Correa’s contract are the Astros paying?
The Astros will pay $70 million of the remaining $103 million on Correa’s deal, while the Twins cover $33 million.
2. Who did the Astros trade for Carlos Correa?
Houston sent Matt Mikulski, a left-handed pitching prospect, to the Twins.
3. Did the Astros try to get a Twins outfielder in the deal?
Yes, their initial proposal included a Minnesota outfielder (likely Trevor Larnach or Matt Wallner), but the Twins rejected the offer.
4. Was Christian Walker part of the trade talks?
Yes, briefly. However, his $40 million contract made the logistics unworkable for Minnesota.
5. Why did the Twins agree to this trade?
The Twins wanted to shed payroll and get a promising pitcher in Mikulski while preparing for the future.