[ESPN] Biggio wants to re-sign, avoid free agency filing

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HOUSTON -- Craig Biggio hopes to reach a deal with the Astros on a one-year contract by Saturday to avoid filing for free agency.

Barry Axelrod, Biggio's agent, said progress has been made on a contract and that he continues to negotiate daily with Houston general manager Tim Purpura.

"We're slowly edging toward getting something done," Axelrod said Tuesday. "We're working hard at it. I don't think either side is excited about Craig filing for free agency. We would rather get it done without having to do that."

Players may file for free agency through Saturday and are eligible to sign with any team beginning the next day. Axelrod said the second baseman would rather not file for free agency because of his long relationship with the team and how it might be perceived to some.

Biggio had 135 hits last season to push his career total to 2,930. He had 33 doubles, 21 home runs and 62 RBI, batting .246. Biggio, who turns 41 next month, has spent his entire 19-year career with the Astros and has always said he'd like to finish his career in Houston.

While not going so far as to say he's confident that a deal will be reached this week, Axelrod said he expects "we're going to reach a resolution" for Biggio to remain with the Astros.

Biggio's teammates Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte filed for free agency on Monday. The pitchers aren't sure whether they want to pitch next season.