Astros Eye Trade for Pitching Amid Red Sox Promotion

BOSTON, Massachusetts — The Houston Astros are exploring trade options to improve their starting rotation following the surprising news that the Boston Red Sox are parting ways with star designated hitter Rafael Devers. With the July 31 trade deadline approaching, Houston sees an opportunity to acquire much-needed pitching to address their injury-stricken roster.

Boston has a wealth of starting pitchers, excluding Garrett Crochet, including several who are on expiring contracts. Notable options for the Astros include Lucas Giolito and Walker Buehler. Giolito, 30, is currently in the second year of a two-year, $38.5 million contract. His performance, however, has been lackluster with a 5.45 ERA over eight starts and a 2-1 record, a result of recovering from elbow surgery prior to the season.

The former first-round pick started strong against the Los Angeles Angels on June 4 but has struggled lately, with half of his starts lasting under five innings. Giolito’s strikeouts per nine innings stand at 7.03, the lowest since his first full MLB season in 2018.

Meanwhile, Walker Buehler, also 30, transitioned from the Los Angeles Dodgers to the Red Sox this offseason. Initially celebrated for making the final out in the 2024 World Series, Buehler’s performance thus far has not met expectations, posting a 5.01 ERA and a 5-4 record through 11 starts. Like Giolito, Buehler’s outings have been inconsistent, with two of his last five starts since returning from injury lasting less than three innings.

The Astros are particularly searching for pitching help, having dealt with injuries to key pitchers such as Spencer Arrighetti and Cristian Javier. Reports suggest the Houston pitching staff has faced significant challenges, marking them as potentially one of the weakest in baseball.

However, the Astros possess valuable trade assets, including their top prospect Brice Matthews, who is nearing his MLB debut. Jacob Melton, who recently tore his ankle but has made his debut, could also be included in a trade deal.

As the trade deadline draws closer, the Astros hold a 4.5-game lead in the AL West entering play on June 16, making their pursuit for pitching an urgent priority.