MLB: Five Teams That Should Be Buyers
By Matt Weyrich
Houston Astros
Surprise! After getting off to a rough 17-28 start, the Astros are over .500 for the first time since beating the Yankees in their first game of the season. Picked by many to win the AL West over the offseason, Houston is finally rounding into form. Riding behind one of the best bullpens in the sport, the Astros may just be getting started.
While Astros GM Jeff Luhnow has said that he sees “no obvious hole” on the roster, the club will remain active in trade discussions. The biggest reason for their slow start has been their starting pitching. Even after Houston started winning, the rotation has not lived up to its billing. Reigning Cy Young winner Dallas Keuchel’s 5.32 ERA is the highest mark on the staff, but Collin McHugh (4.70) and Mike Fiers (4.42) are not far behind.
The Astros have a strong farm system, with enough young talent to make waves in the trade market. While the market for starters is thin, the aforementioned Gray and Teheran could very well be within their reach. If they opt not to go for an ace, several names such as Jake Odorizzi, Drew Pomeranz and Jeremy Hellickson could be tossed around.
Even if Houston really has turned things around, their rotation will not be able to withstand a playoff series. Pitted against the best lineups in baseball, the Astros will be fighting a very uphill battle. This team is badly in need of another arm, and the longer they wait, the higher the price will go.
Next: Bullpen Help North of the Border