Where Does Isaac Paredes Fit Into the Astros’ 2027 Plans

During the 2026 season, Isaac Paredes really became a key piece of the puzzle. With Carlos Correa sidelined for most of the season, Paredes stepped up and proved he deserves the playing time.

Here is a look at Paredes’ 2026 regular season stats:

Regular Season Stats:

.262 AVG, 147 H, 25 HR, 94 RBI, 69 R, .360 OBP, .807 OPS

Career Stats: 

.242 AVG, .342 OBP, .775 OPS

He had a career-high 659 plate appearances, showing he can handle the workload.

Paredes is only 27. The Astros hold a $13.35 million club option, cheaper than his projected $15 million in arbitration, per MLB Trade Rumors.

It must be strange to be an excellent major league hitter and still be asked about the guy hitting ahead of you. But instead of feeling disrespected or overshadowed, Isaac Paredes seemed genuinely impressed by what he watched Yordan Alvarez do all year.

Paredes’ performance is a little overshadowed by Alvarez, and Paredes’ solid performances aren’t really talked about enough. He’s become a key piece of the puzzle for the Astros, especially at the plate. The Astros may have had their ups and downs this season, but Jeremy Peña, Alvarez, and then Paredes are nothing to mess around with if you’re on the mound.

After a great season, the question is what the lineup will look like with Carlos Correa back in the mix. Will Alvarez get the time in left field like he wants to make room for Correa? Paredes as designated hitter and Correa at third? On defense, Paredes was slightly below average, with minus-7 defensive runs saved at third, per MLB Trade Rumors. It will be interesting to see how the Astros make room for all of their stars.

That said, Paredes’ true value is at the plate. He is a slightly below-average defender, but he is definitely someone they want at the plate. He is also versatile; he can play third or first, so if the Astros decide to part ways with Christian Walker, an option is to move Paredes to first. Either way, he earned his playing time in 2026 for 2027.

Paredes’ value is at the plate, but in terms of defense, moving him to first, the Astros would endure some growing pains. This team is already facing a lot of change heading into 2027. Keeping Paredes at third would be one less shake-up.