Brett Myers Rumors: Astros Not Shopping Players

This weekend it was rumored that the Houston Astros were shopping closer Brett Myers.  After Brian Wilson’s injury, it was believed that a team such as the San Francisco Giants could be interested in the veteran right-hander.  However, last night Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow told FOX 26 Sports in Houston that he’s “not involved in trade discussions for any of his players”.

Luhnow said that the Astros focus is currently on winning games and that there is “nothing to a report” by Bob Nightengale of the USA Today that Myers in on the trading block.

Myers name has been involved in the rumor mill since the offseason, as many expected the Astros to actively shop him as well as other veterans including Wandy Rodriguez and Carlos Lee.  But the Astros only significant trade of the offseason involved Mark Melancon.

In the wake of the Melancon deal and with Brandon Lyon no longer an option for ninth inning duties, the Astros decided to name Myers their closer this spring.  Though Myers had been an innings eater for the Astros for the past two seasons, Houston liked their rotation depth enough to move the right-hander to the bullpen.

Myers figures to be available this summer, but it’s hard to predict what type of return he will warrant following his role change.  Myers isn’t considered to be a top relief pitcher and was likely more valuable as a starter that could provide a team 200-plus innings pitched.

For more on the Astros be sure to check out Climbing Tal’s Hill.

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