The MLB trade deadline is rapidly approaching, with teams around the league scrambling to make final adjustments to their rosters before the July 30 cutoff. The Houston Astros, currently tied for the top spot in the American League West, face significant challenges as they contend with numerous injuries to key pitchers.
Justin Verlander, Luis Garcia, Cristian Javier, Lance McCullers Jr., J.P. France, and José Urquidy are all currently sidelined, with Javier, France, and Urquidy ruled out for the remainder of the season. Despite these setbacks, the Astros have managed an impressive 27-14 record since June, a testament to the team's resilience and depth.
General Manager Dana Brown has been vocal about the team's strategy leading up to the trade deadline: "Try to go big and see if there's a deal that makes sense for the organization. If that doesn't work, we'll go down to mid-level and hopefully we can land something there. But it doesn't hurt to ask. When you go through this, ask and thou shall receive sometimes. We want to try to go big, and if we can't get the big thing done, we'll try to go mid-level so we can get through this."
Across the league, the Atlanta Braves have also made significant moves. The team lost second baseman Ozzie Albies to a fractured forearm, prompting them to sign former All-Star Whit Merrifield, recently released by the Phillies. Merrifield struggled with the Phillies, hitting .199/.277/.295 in 53 games, but showed better form last year with the Blue Jays, recording a .272/.318/.382 over 145 games. The Braves have also promoted prospect Nacho Alvarez for his big-league debut, adding some fresh talent to their roster.
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly scouting the Yankees' system as they look to strengthen their team. The Baltimore Orioles have shown interest in acquiring Tigers' left-hander Tarik Skubal and have been actively scouting Detroit’s Triple-A affiliate in Norfolk.
In other news, the Seattle Mariners have placed first baseman Ty France on outright waivers. France, who has a 94 OPS+ this season, will have the opportunity to reject a minor league assignment and opt for free agency, retaining his full salary of nearly $7 million. This move could potentially provide France with a fresh start while freeing up resources for the Mariners.
As the deadline looms, teams across the league are making strategic decisions to position themselves for the final stretch of the season. The Astros, despite their injury woes, remain a formidable force in the American League, while the Braves and other franchises are making key acquisitions and promotions to bolster their squads. The coming days will undoubtedly bring more developments, as GMs work to ensure their teams are best equipped for the pivotal months ahead.
With the shuffle and strategizing in full swing, fans can expect a flurry of activity leading up to Tuesday's deadline, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the MLB season.