Report: Astros Are Willing To Buy High For Talent

ByBrian K. Patterson|Jul 26, 2015, 11:19 AM EDT

We’re now five days out…

As the MLB trade deadline continues to get closer and closer at seemingly breakneck pace, the Houston Astros continue to be mentioned as a serious buyer in a market that’s going to have plenty of talent available.

In my opinion, with the Astros recently signingScott Kazmiraway from the Oakland Athletics for prospectsDaniel MengdenandJacob Nottingham, they’re likely done acquiring starting pitching.

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But I won’t say that definitely because if there’s somebody out there that they like, it makes sense for this team to go out and get them.

Astros’ owner Jim Crane has also confirmed that he’s willing to open his wallet “if it makes sense” in order to help this team make a solid postseason run.

Here’s what he told KRIV-TV’s Mark Berman yesterday:

Jim Crane:"We'll look at any contract that makes sense. I don't think there's any doubt we'd like to add some more if it makes good sense."
— Mark Berman (@MarkBerman_)July 25, 2015

And Crane also said that they’re looking for a bat as well:

Jim Crane on adding a hitter:"(Jeff Luhnow) is certainly looking at that 2.He's been on the phone all day.We're going 2explore every option"
— Mark Berman (@MarkBerman_)July 25, 2015

Wow!

He may have had previous mentions but this is the first time I’ve heard him go on the record indicating that he’s willing to spend money.

An owner that pinches pennies like none other, it’s great to hear that he’s willing to do whatever needs to be to have some sort of continuity with the team’s ascent into relevancy once again.

There’s even more good news coming from the Houston Chronicle’s Evan Drellichindicating that the Astros will make “at least” one more trade before the deadline.

There are many names out there —David Price,Cole Hamels,Johnny Cueto,Adam Lind, Yeonis Cespedes,Jay Bruceand many, many more.

But what’s it going to take to get those guys?

A lot of cash and some talent off our roster — outside ofJose Altuve,Carlos Correa,Dallas KeuchelandGeorge Springer, I think everybody else on the roster is open for a deal but I’d much rather for them to deal prospects which is more than likely what these teams will want.

But who knows?

Jon Morosi of FOX Sports reported yesterday that the opening bidfor the Tigers’ Price is an “MLB-ready” starting pitcher.

Astros appear to be content to let the rest of the league pass them by this offseason

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We have some guys that fit that bill but I’m sure they’re going to want more than that.

Here’s the deal — the Astros have been stockpiling on talent over the past few seasons since Jeff Luhnow has been at the helm so this puts the club at a fortunate advantage, being able to offer assets that not all other teams — even if they have wads of cash to spend — can offer.

This is why it’s showtime for the Astros because they’re aware that players want to come here now as a successful product has been put together with the just the right combination of ingredients.

Let’s hope there’s no stalemate before the deadline.