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.