Houston Astros trades bring a postseason frame of mind

The Houston Astros expect the moves they made this week to correct their recent course and, most importantly, pay dividends in October.

While the Los Angeles Angels used the final day of August to improve their chances of just getting to the postseason, the Houston Astros made their big move with October solely in mind. In all honesty, they’ve had the American League West wrapped up since before the All-Star break. But the playoffs are a different animal, and success in the regular season doesn’t guarantee the same results in the postseason.

Even when they seemed invincible during the first couple months of the campaign, most observers thought the Astros could use another starting pitcher. Having another ace-type to put alongside Dallas Keuchel in a playoff series would be even better. Houston was linked to Justin Verlander as soon as reports emerged that the Tigers were willing to deal him. But the July 31 non-waiver deadline passed with no trade for Verlander or any starter of real impact.

The Astros drew criticism for not addressing this clear need, including from some of their own players. But in an unexpected swoop, they righted the wrong by landing Verlander on Thursday for a package of three prospects, just in time for him to retain postseason eligibility for his new club. Beyond simply adding an accomplished former Cy Young and MVP winner to the fold, Verlander makes Houston a much tougher out in October.

The fact of the matter is that the Astros have largely been treading water since their scorching-hot start to 2017. They went a commanding 38-16 in the first two months, but have posted a less impressive 42-37 record since the beginning of June. Their 12-game lead in the division is in no realistic danger, but the ‘Stros have looked more like an average squad than a juggernaut for a while now.

The rotation has also been a growing problem. Houston starting pitchers have managed a 4.79 ERA in the second half, good for just 18th in Major League Baseball. Keuchel is back to ace form but has missed time to injury. Lance McCullers looked great early but seemed to be coming back down to earth before landing on the DL himself.

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Verlander lends some instant credibility to the group. Yes, he’s 34 and not having his best season, but he’s worked a sparkling 2.31 ERA over his last 11 starts. Traditionally a second-half pitcher, the Astros nabbed Verlander at exactly the right time as they prepare for a strong finish and look toward the postseason.

The former Tigers ace wasn’t the only new member Houston welcomed this week. The Astros also swung a deal with the Angels for Cameron Maybin on a waiver claim. The outfielder has struggled with the bat this year, slashing .235/.333/.351 (87 OPS+) in 93 games. (He put up a 119 OPS+ last season.) However, he still offers solid defense and leads the AL with 29 stolen bases.

Successful playoff teams have useful players up and down the roster, even ones who can help in seemingly small ways. Maybin could play a key role as a pinch-runner and/or defensive replacement possibility for the Astros down the stretch.

It took a bit longer than expected, but the Astros did well to not merely rest on their early-season laurels and attempt to coast into October with what they had. Verlander and Keuchel are an intimidating one-two punch to face in any postseason series. If McCullers returns and gets back on track, that’s suddenly a very nice trio.

Next: August trades sign of growing trend?

With Cleveland catching fire (winners of nine straight) and the Red Sox also playing quite well, the Astros have been looking like less of a sure thing in the American League. Their last-minute trade activity could be the jolt they need to re-assert themselves as serious World Series contenders.

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