Jim Crane says it\'s possible that the Houston Astros could exceed the luxury tax in their pursuit of re-signing Gerrit Cole.
The Astros\' estimated payroll next year will be around $208 million. The Astros have never exceeded the luxury tax threshold.
\"We\'re going to take a run at it,\" the owner said. \"We don\'t know if we can get to where they want to get. [Agent Scott] Boras is tough to deal with.\"
The Astros extended Cole a $17.8 million qualifying offer before Monday\'s deadline. If he signs before the 2020 MLB Draft, the Astros would get a compensatory pick in June.