The Houston Astros are gearing up to begin the second half of the 2024 MLB season with a 50-46 record and a solid shot at making the playoffs.
Despite significant injury challenges, the Astros have managed to stay competitive. They are currently only one game behind in the American League West division and three and a half games back in the Wild Card race.
Given their performance and current standing, it’s likely that Houston will be active in the trade market before the deadline. General Manager Dana Brown has openly stated that the team intends to be buyers.
With this in mind, ClutchPoints has identified two “sneaky” trade targets for the Astros: Tampa Bay Rays’ Yandy Diaz and Los Angeles Angels’ starting pitcher Tyler Anderson.
Diaz would provide a significant upgrade at first base for the Astros. In 94 games with the Rays this season, he’s batting .273/.329/.396 with eight home runs and 46 RBIs—numbers that would strengthen Houston’s lineup.
On the pitching side, Anderson would be a valuable addition to the Astros’ rotation. He has started 19 games for the Angels, recording an 8-8 record with a 2.97 ERA, a 1.17 WHIP, and 81 strikeouts over 118.0 innings. While not a superstar, he is the type of reliable starter that every rotation needs.
Houston’s primary needs are at first base and starting pitching, and these two players could fill those gaps without requiring the Astros to give up too much in return.
While a blockbuster trade for a star player is an option, making strategic “sneaky” moves might be more prudent. The Astros have been linked to stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. for first base and Garrett Crochet for starting pitching.
Expect the Astros to be involved in numerous trade rumors over the next week and a half. They are on the verge of becoming a legitimate playoff contender, and a couple of key acquisitions could push them to that level.
