It seems that the Houston Astros were always linked to Chris Archer across the past 18 months. Thus far, those rumors haven’t surfaced. But he could still be an option at the deadline – or afterwards.
The Houston Astros were linked to Chris Archer for nearly all of last season. And while they currently aren’t in search of another starting pitcher, they could need one next season.
Hence, although the rumors with Archer are quiet, there is still a chance Houston looks at a last-minute offer. The front office could also wait until the offseason.
Since the Astros will technically lose two of its five starting pitchers, they need to reinforce the rotation. However, that’s if the front office chooses not to bring back either Charlie Morton or Dallas Keuchel – or both.
Archer is the quintessential Houston prospect. The 29-year-old showcases his potential and promise nearly every start. He possesses swing-and-miss stuff and consistently racks up strikeouts.
Nevertheless, he’s erratic at times and relatively inconsistent. He allowed more than 25 bombs in each of the previous two seasons. While Archer’s repertoire remains one of the best in the league, he sports a career-high WHIP and ERA this season.
However, even with all of his faults, Archer owned ERAs lower than 4.10 across his previous five campaigns.
Several teams are attempting to obtain the starter, and it’s unknown whether the Astros are involved. At this point, the club seems set after acquiring two lesser-known players last week.
Yet, if no one snags the hard-throwing right-hander prior to Tuesday, he could be Houston’s main target come November. Last year, the Astros had their eyes on Gerrit Cole. And Cole has improved significantly, reaching near-ace status this year.
Under pitching coach Brent Strom, Archer enter that category. At least, that may be Houston’s plan in the near future – if he remains available.
Would the trade be worth it?
If the New York Yankees or Los Angeles Dodgers acquired Archer, they would likely be the favorites to win the World Series.
If the Astros found a way to exchange for the Rays pitcher, they would be able to claim that title. Of course, Houston already has one of the league’s best pitching staffs and a chance to repeat.
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However, that premier staff could be depleted within two years, as Lance McCullers is the only starter with a contract past 2020. But surely the Astros will look to keep most, if not all four, of its current starters.
But in case one or two of them do not return, Archer would be a solid backup plan. Although Tampa Bay would demand a major return with one or two top prospects, Archer could be worth it.
It would primarily be a future investment. Although, Houston could utilize him in the bullpen this year and possibly even in the rotation if an injury occurred.
The Astros is typically loyal to its top prospects, and Forrest Whitley could be off the table in future transactions. However, other guys like J.B. Bukauskas and Rogelio Armenteros could be available.
Yet, the front office will determine if Archer is worth it. He is ultimately the definition of a high-risk, high-reward option for the future.
And he could find his way to Houston within the next few years.