HOUSTON (AP) — José Altuve, an eight-time All-Star, two-time World Series champion, and the 2017 AL MVP, expressed his desire to stay in Houston as he approached free agency in ten months.
During a news conference the day after agreeing to a contract extension worth $125 million from 2025-2029, Altuve emphasized his strong connection to both Houston and his native Venezuela, referring to both places as home.
Reflecting on his decision to remain with the Astros, Altuve shared a touching moment he experiences daily with his family, underscoring the sense of stability and belonging he feels in Houston.
Acknowledging Altuve’s significance to the team, Astros general manager Dana Brown praised him as the “heartbeat of the organization” and a potential future Hall of Famer, highlighting his pivotal role both on and off the field.
Altuve’s enduring commitment to the Astros was further celebrated by Houston Mayor John Whitmire, who declared a special day in his honor, coinciding with Altuve’s jersey number, 2⁄7.
Despite his modest stature at 5-foot-6, Altuve’s impact on the Astros and the sport as a whole has been immense, with his journey from a tryout rejection to a $15,000 signing at 16 years old serving as a testament to his resilience and talent.
As Altuve looks ahead to the future with the Astros, his dedication to the team and his growth through challenging times have solidified his legacy as a key figure in the Astros’ success story.