Alex Bregman rejected the Houston Astros’ one-year, $21.05 million qualifying offer on Tuesday, a foregone conclusion as the third baseman prepares for free agency.

Bregman, 30, is expected to sign a long-term, nine-figure contract as the top third baseman and hitter on the free agent market. By issuing a qualifying offer, the Astros assured that they would receive draft pick compensation if Bregman signed elsewhere.

Houston is looking to reunite with Bregman. This month, general manager Dana Brown stated that re-signing Bregman is the team’s “biggest priority.” According to owner Jim Crane, Brown has been “visiting frequently” with Bregman’s agent, Scott Boras, but there is “nothing to report” on those negotiations.

Boras said at this month’s GM meetings there is a “very healthy” market for Bregman, and some teams were inquiring about Bregman as an option at second base, an idea to which he is open.

Brown declined to say at the GM meetings whether the Astros had made Bregman a formal offer aside from the qualifying offer. Crane acknowledged Monday the Astros are also exploring “backup” plans in case Bregman signs with another team.

Because Bregman declined the qualifying offer, the Astros would receive a compensation pick after the fourth round of the 2025 draft should he sign with another team.