Four Trades That Push The Astros To A World Series
By Yoni Pollak
Apr 6, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; General view of Minute Maid Park during the game between the Houston Astros and the Cleveland Indians. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
The Astros weren’t supposed to be here. They were not supposed to be 49-42 and just 1/2 game out of the lead for the AL West. They weren’t.
But they are. And since they are, it means they are going to be buyers at this summer’s deadline.
Trades need to be made and will be made. This article will be filled with many proposals. It won’t be four different proposals with many of the same players and y’all deciding which one would be better for the Astros. No. Rather, it will be four different proposals all based on one and other. I’ll fill every need of the Astros as best as possible. Prospects will be dealt and this squad will look as new as ever.
The trouble with these proposals is trying to make them as fair as possible. One has to take into account the other team’s thought process, their minor league system, and when they are likely looking to contend. The contracts of the players you’re trading for are also very important when it comes to value.
There is also the prospect bias that usually comes from the fans. Yes, Mark Appel was the 1st overall pick just a few seasons ago, but that’s not how he’s going to be valued this July. Jonathan Singleton has been great when in the minors, but how do teams value him now after last year’s unsuccessful stint in the majors?
With all that said, I’m going to try my best. I have put together four trades as if I was the General Manager of the Astros. That’s right. Our savior Jeff Luhnow has been replaced by yours truly. I promise not to screw this up! (And Luhnow will still help out in the front office.)
These trades will all be as realistic as possible. I won’t be trading for Clayton Kershaw or Mike Trout. Everything will be factored in as best as possible.
Notes:
- These trades are with players known to be available for the most part.
- All projected lineups/rotations are assuming everyone is healthy.
- Astros could also receive random throw-in prospects in big trades as well for depth purposes.
Let’s get to it!
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