Astros’ Trade Targets: 5 Pitchers to Boost Their Playoff Hopes
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
Jack Flaherty: A Strong Comeback Story
Jack Flaherty had a rough go in 2023 with the St. Louis Cardinals and even struggled after a mid-season trade to the Baltimore Orioles. However, in 2024, Flaherty has found his form again with the Detroit Tigers. On a one-year deal, Flaherty boasts a 3.13 ERA over 100 2/3 innings, showing he’s back to his dominant self. The 28-year-old righty could be a game-changer for the Astros' rotation, offering solid postseason experience. Though acquiring him will come at a price, his performance this season makes him a valuable rental option.
Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.
Andrew Heaney: A Risk Worth Taking?
Andrew Heaney, currently with the Texas Rangers, could be a strategic addition for the Astros. The lefty has a 3.79 ERA over 95 innings in 2024 and recently recorded his 1,000th career strikeout. Heaney’s ability to start or serve as a swingman makes him a versatile option. Trading within the division might be tricky, but Heaney’s potential impact could outweigh the risks. With the Astros’ need for pitching depth, a deal for Heaney could significantly strengthen their postseason push.
Trevor Richards: Bullpen Depth Addition
Toronto’s Trevor Richards could be a useful rental for the Astros' bullpen. With a 3.62 ERA over 49.2 innings, Richards excels with his fastball-changeup combo. His splits are impressive, holding left-handed hitters to a .498 OPS and right-handers to .568. Adding Richards would give manager Joe Espada a reliable option against both lefties and righties, enhancing the bullpen’s versatility. While not a headline-grabbing move, Richards would provide valuable depth for the stretch run.
Download the SportsGrid App
Stay Ahead of the Game and Elevate Your Sports Betting Experience with SportsGrid. Download the SportsGrid App from the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
Erick Fedde: Reinvented and Ready
Erick Fedde's career turnaround in Korea led to a stellar 2024 season with the Chicago White Sox. Signed to a two-year deal, Fedde has a 2.99 ERA over 111.1 innings, with a solid strikeout-to-walk ratio. His four-pitch mix, including a sinker and cutter, aligns well with the Astros’ pitching philosophy. Fedde’s contract runs through 2025, making him a valuable trade asset. If the White Sox decide to sell high, the Astros could benefit from Fedde’s newfound effectiveness and consistency.
For all your MLB deep dives check out our friends at Just Baseball.
Tyler Anderson: The Crafty Left-Hander
Tyler Anderson, a key pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels, has been quietly effective in 2024. With a 2.97 ERA over 118 innings, Anderson excels at inducing weak contact despite not having overpowering stuff. His pitch mix includes an 89 mph fastball, a changeup, and a cutter, making him a reliable option. Anderson is under contract for one more year at $13 million, providing the Astros with an experienced lefty who can either bolster their playoff rotation or be flipped in the offseason.
Swing for the Fences with SportsGrid’s free daily MLB Game Picks and MLB Prop Picks.
Jack Flaherty: A Strong Comeback Story
Jack Flaherty had a rough go in 2023 with the St. Louis Cardinals and even struggled after a mid-season trade to the Baltimore Orioles. However, in 2024, Flaherty has found his form again with the Detroit Tigers. On a one-year deal, Flaherty boasts a 3.13 ERA over 100 2/3 innings, showing he’s back to his dominant self. The 28-year-old righty could be a game-changer for the Astros' rotation, offering solid postseason experience. Though acquiring him will come at a price, his performance this season makes him a valuable rental option.
Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.
Andrew Heaney: A Risk Worth Taking?
Andrew Heaney, currently with the Texas Rangers, could be a strategic addition for the Astros. The lefty has a 3.79 ERA over 95 innings in 2024 and recently recorded his 1,000th career strikeout. Heaney’s ability to start or serve as a swingman makes him a versatile option. Trading within the division might be tricky, but Heaney’s potential impact could outweigh the risks. With the Astros’ need for pitching depth, a deal for Heaney could significantly strengthen their postseason push.
