Kikuchi would 'be happy' to receive offer from Astros in free agency
Yusei Kikuchi doesn't know what free agency will bring, but he certainly wouldn't oppose re-upping with the Houston Astros.
"I can't control anything that's going to happen. I have to have an offer from the team in order for me to accept," Kikuchi said, according to The Athletic's Chandler Rome.
"Obviously, if I get the offer, I'll be happy. But something I can say is I love all my teammates, coaches, and staff. I feel comfortable here."
Kikuchi has been tremendous for the Astros since being acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays for three prospects, posting an impressive 3.00 ERA and 0.94 WHIP across 54 innings pitched.
Houston has gone a perfect 9-0 during his starts.
Now, at 34 years old, Kikuchi is looking to sign what is likely to be his last major contract with a perennial contender.
"As I'm getting older, I'm thinking to myself, 'I haven't won a championship yet.' I definitely want to be on a winning squad where we can go for a World Series championship," he said.
Kikuchi also cited his family's comfort and his preference for "being in warmer weather" as important factors in a decision.
The lefty is in the final season of a three-year, $36-million deal he originally inked with the Blue Jays.
He owns a career 4.60 ERA across six MLB campaigns.