Houston Astros reportedly targeting 2 starting pitchers ahead of MLB trade deadline
The arrival of the MLB trade deadline brought an influx of Houston Astros rumors tying them to some of the top MLB trade candidates around the league. While there are dozens of players available, Houston seems to have its eyes on a pair of specific players right now.
Buying at the trade deadline seemed unlikely for Houston just a few months ago. The club entered June nearly 10 games below the .500 line with a 25-33 record. With numerous injuries, a turnaround in just two months felt improbable. However, the Astros have done just that.
Entering MLB games today, the Astros are tied with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the second-most wins (29) in baseball since June 1. Of the three clubs to win 29-plus games in the last two months, Houston has played the fewest total games (45) over that span.
Houston’s starting rotation is one of the biggest reasons for its success as of late. Command issues plagued the Astros’ starters for the early half of the season, but the club has made strides. However, while it’s been an area of improvement, Houston does have the fifth-highest walk rate (8.6 percent) since June 1.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Astros have their eyes on Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Erick Fedde and Detroit Tigers ace Jack Flaherty ahead of the MLB trade deadline.
