Houston Astros: Which relievers will the club target at the deadline?

Zach Britton

Just two years ago, Britton enjoyed arguably one of the best relief seasons in the history of the sport. No one was more dominant late in games than the southpaw in 2016.

Britton was the only pitcher in baseball to rank in the top 11 in ERA in both 2015 and 2016. And in that 2016 career campaign, he owned a minuscule .54 ERA and .89 WHIP.

No relief pitcher in MLB history owned an ERA lower than that. The closest was Fernando Rodney in 2012, when he posted a .60 ERA for the Rays.

And yet, even when Baltimore had the opportunity to deal the closer for a substantial trade package, it held. But the Orioles finished 16 games over .500 that season and played in the American League Wild Card game.

This year, Baltimore sits in dead last in the AL East with a dreadful 20-50 record. Signs point toward a rebuild across the next few seasons as well.

Therefore, now is the opportunity to sell high on Britton while he’s still as efficient as he is.

Britton was just recently activated from the disabled list. after he ruptured his Achilles tendon late last December, forcing him to miss a considerable amount of time. He also dealt with several injuries in 2017, lessening his value – supposedly.

Houston has a chance to gain a solid pitcher at a lower price, even if he still requires a hefty collection in return. And Britton’s contract expires this season, so Baltimore will be interested.

Now the issue comes down to price. The Orioles’ pitching staff hasn’t ranked in the top 15 in ERA since 2014. They will want top-tier talent to fill the hole Britton leaves behind.