Houston Astros Rumors: Team still remains interested in Justin Verlander

The Houston Astros still are targeting one of the best starting pitchers available off waivers to improve their depth at that position.

Yes, the Houston Astros are still in dialogue with the Detroit Tigers in regard to Justin Verlander, one of the league’s proven veterans that can take things to task out on the bump.  I wasn’t sure what their level of interest was on Verlander but there may be some momentum to this.  It’s apparent that this team is showing wear and tear in terms of our pitchers going the distance and with their health.

We honestly need all that help that we can get so that we have the necessary tools to compete not only through the remainder of the season but the playoffs as well.  How the Houston Astros performed at the deadline with just picking up Francisco Liriano is quite underwhelming but it looks like the team is working on righting the ship in hurry before it could possibly start to sink if the hole isn’t plugged up.

According to MLB Insider Jon Morosi, the Houston Astros and Tigers are currently in dialogue with each other but he’s unsure if talks have escalated with the team’s recent woes:

Multiple reports have indicated that not only Verlander was placed on revocable waivers but has cleared them as well.  To be honest, I’d expect that because who would want to be on the hook for $27 million per season through 2019?  That’s exactly how much he’s owed through the remainder of his contract.  The key is to allow him to clear waivers so that one can negotiate with the original team for a potential deal to get done.

The Astros will first have to work out if they’ll commit to all of his salary or have the Tigers cover some of it.  It’s a tough call but with the right negotiations, it could be done. Then we’ll have to figure out who we’re giving up.  Kyle Tucker, Derek Fisher, Francis Martes and Franklin Perez are going to be among the guys they want.

Out of those aforementioned prospects, I’d give them one and throw in Tony Kemp and Garrett Stubbs.  We’re going to have to part with a prospect so I’m already proposing that those are going to be guys that they want.  And the crazy thing is that we may not have to part with any of our top guys to deal for Veralnder so we’ll have to see.

Although Verlander has had his fair share of struggles, his last four starts have been notable.  He’s gone 2-0, tossed 33 strikeouts — including 10 in his last start this past Friday — and allowed just seven earned runs through 27.0 innings pitched.  He’s showing some strong stuff as of late and with the situation being dire, I think it would be prudent for the Astros to make a shrewd move to get him.

The clock is ticking and it’s imperative the team makes a move before it’s too late.  I’m not necessarily high on Verlander in this stage of his career but the need is there and it has to be addressed.  Plus Kate Upton is an excellent upgrade to the Diamond Club where there is a need for one.  Yes, this pun is intended!

Next: Astros need to move in on Ervin Santana

But anyway, for what it’s worth, Verlander has posted a 7-7 record, 4.20 ERA, 136 strikeouts, 64 earned runs with a 4.13 FIP and 1.409 WHIP through 137.0 innings pitched in 23 starts for 2017.

Go Astros.