The Astros are buyers at the deadline, but with a rotation ranked 26th in baseball, can they actually get what they need in time?
General Manager Dana Brown is reportedly looking for a starting pitcher, a left-handed outfielder, and a right-handed reliever, per CBS Sports. While they have played much better baseball in recent weeks, the rotation has been one of the worst in baseball since June 1, and something has to change. Their ERA is currently 4.76, ranking 26th in the league, per MLB.
Hunter Brown has been one of the only reliable arms since returning from the IL, but even Brown had a rough outing last weekend against the Rays.
Arrighetti had a historic first half and stepped up when the rotation needed him most, but he has been struggling since June. He showed signs of life this past weekend against the Rays, pitching well despite taking the loss.
Imai is still inconsistent and just had a brutal 1 1/3 inning five run outing against the Twins July 1. He has had his moments, like the historic no-hitter, but his inconsistency is a killer.
Burrows has had good moments, but again inconsistent. Teng is on the IL with a knee injury, and Lance McCullers Jr. is also on the IL with right rotator cuff impingement.
Then there is Lambert. He has been solid but cannot carry the rotation alone.
McCullers is making rehab starts and could return in July. Javier is back, but in the bullpen for now, so he isn't the starting pitcher boost they need for now. If McCullers comes back and pitches well, the rotation suddenly looks a lot deeper.
So who could actually help? Here is a look at the names being thrown around:
- Tarik Skubal (Tigers) — the ideal pitcher but probably not happening. Two time Cy Young winner and the Astros simply cannot compete with the Yankees and Braves in a bidding war.
- Sonny Gray (Red Sox) — the more realistic option. Pitching well this season and on an expiring deal.
- Casey Mize (Tigers) — the hidden gem. Cheap, consistent, and would slot in right behind Brown.
- Mickey Moniak (Rockies) — the left-handed outfielder the Astros are targeting.
Multiple teams are calling about Blubaugh's availability, per MLB Trade Rumors. He has a 3.36 ERA in 56.1 innings this season and has been one of the best relievers in baseball. The Astros may have to use him as trade currency to get what they need. Dana Brown has to decide if weakening the bullpen to fix the rotation is worth it.
