Houston Astros linked to three trade options for starting pitcher

The Houston Astros will be a team to watch very closely over the next 10 days. With the MLB trade deadline fast approaching, they would like to make a big move or two.

Ideally, Dana Brown and management will be able to improve the starting rotation and acquire a first baseman. Those are the two main areas the Astros need to focus on.

Injuries have completely disorganized the rotation. Even Justin Verlander couldn’t return quickly from an injury that wasn’t supposed to keep him out long-term. Now that the team is back in the playoff race, Houston needs help.

With a 52-46 record, the Astros have won two straight against the Seattle Mariners after the All-Star break and moved into first place in the American League West. They should be aggressive in the trade market given the way they’ve played in recent weeks.

If they can add a few quality pieces, there’s nothing stopping them from having a dominant second half of the season and making the playoffs.

That being said, FanSided’s Drew Koch suggested three starting pitchers Houston should pursue.

Eric Fedde, The Chicago White Sox

First on the list was an intriguing White Sox pitcher not named Garrett Crochet.

Fedde had a quality 2024 season, starting in 19 games and going 7-3 to go along with a 2.99 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 3.3 K/BB ratio and 111.1 innings pitched. Those numbers would fit right into the Astros’ rotation and give them exactly the kind of production they need.

Tyler Anderson, Los Angeles Angels

Then they were linked to a trade for Anderson. His name has been mentioned in trade rumors and would also give Houston a steady presence in the rotation.

Anderson is 8-8 this season in 19 starts and has posted a 2.97 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 1.7 K/BB ratio in 118.0 innings. Based on the price the Angels have set for him, Houston would be wise to check in and pursue a trade for the 34-year-old veteran.

Yusei Kikuchi, Toronto Blue Jays

Finally, a trade with the Blue Jays could be a good idea. Kikuchi is a popular trade target for teams in need of starting pitchers.

The 33-year-old would be a cheaper option for teams in need of a starting pitcher. He’s 4-9 this season with a 4.54 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 4.5 K/BB ratio and 111.0 innings pitched. Kikuchi wouldn’t be as good as the other two on this list, but he’d be a decent addition.