Houston Astros could look into two Mets relievers for help
By Kyle Cardoza
As the trade deadline looms, the Houston Astros are still looking for bullpen help. Two Mets pitchers could help them not only this year, but in the future as well.
Houston Astros manager A.J. Hinch boasts a number of hybrid relievers. Guys like Brad Peacock, Chris Devenski and Collin McHugh all transitioned from starters into relievers.
Essentially every year a new Houston pitcher comes to light thriving in this new role. And while Houston supposedly searches for a shut-down reliever, it’s reasonable to seek another pitcher from this category.
Mets pitchers Robert Gsellman and Seth Lugo come to the forefront if that’s the case. Both have had stints as starters on the bump. Yet, their success arguably came while pitching out of the pen.
After the Jeurys Familia deal Saturday, New York may be interested in a mid-season fire sale. Of course, the Mets’ front office might not want to swap their younger players due to potential.
Jeurys Familia was very emotional tonight in his post game interview. He has had some dark days during his tenure as a Met. But he grew up here, and he’s been a very good, often elite closer for the #Mets.
— Michael Baron (@michaelgbaron) July 21, 2018
Nevertheless, New York always seem like a dark horse National League East victor before injuries settle in. And if the Mets determine a rebuild is needed, now would be the time.
Houston, on the other hand, looks poised for another deep playoff run. Even if the Astros choose to stay put at the deadline, they will be in good shape.
But it seems likely that Houston garners at least one additional arm in the pen prior to the deadline. Zach Britton and Raisel Iglesias are be the two more appealing options, but both may be off the market by next week. And both could require big packages.
Therefore, both Mets pitchers offer value for the Astros, who don’t necessarily need a closer. Hector Rondon shuts opponents down in the later innings and has experience in the role.
Hence, Hinch and company could seek another versatile reliever for the future.