The Houston Astros recently swept the Arizona Diamondbacks and now have the best record in the American League. At 60-42, they also have a six-game lead in the AL West.
After a rocky start to the season, Houston has seemingly put its struggles behind them. They'll likely be buyers at the upcoming trade deadline, which is now a week away.
They could use rotation help, but also a left-handed bat. Activity should start to pick up over the next couple of days.
Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report created blueprints for all contending teams at the trade deadline and proposed the idea of Houston trading for Miami Marlins All-Star Kyle Stowers.
"Stowers figures to also be a main target of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have a much better/deeper farm system to entice Miami into a deal. That shouldn't stop Houston from trying to acquire what could be the final piece of the championship puzzle, though," Miller wrote.
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Stowers has put together a strong season with the Marlins. He is hitting .295/.372/.565 with 22 home runs, 61 RBI, a 2.9 WAR and a .937 OPS.
He is a younger player, which means that the Marlins would likely ask for a hefty return. Houston's farm system is somewhat depleted.
However, Stowers would give their lineup a major boost. They also would not have to continue playing Jose Altuve in left field.
The 37-year-old is not a free agent until 2030. If he can follow up his All-Star campaign with more success, then Houston could be in luck, assuming they acquire him.
We'll see if they show interest.
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