The Houston Astros currently hold a five-game lead in the American League West over the Seattle Mariners. At 60-43, they also have the second-best record in the Junior Circuit.
General Manager Dana Brown has stated that the Astros are prioritizing adding bats at the trade deadline. However, a starting pitcher shouldn't be out of the question.
Houston's rotation has been hit hard with injuries this season, and it certainly wouldn't hurt to have one more arm.
Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report recently listed some of the top available rotation arms. Among them was Edward Cabrera, who was predicted to be traded to Houston before next week's deadline.
"Houston needs another solid starter to pair with Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez. And whoever it gets will hopefully be sticking around, as Valdez is a free agent at year's end," Rymer wrote.
"Cabrera checks these boxes, and his affordability is crucial for the Astros."
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Cabrera himself has dealt with various injuries over the years, but he has put together a solid season for the Miami Marlins this year. He is 4-4 with a 3.48 ERA and 2.0 WAR in 17 starts.
If he can stay healthy, he could be a solid addition for the Astros, who desperately need arms. He is not a free agent until 2029, so the Astros would have him for at least four more years.
The Astros don't typically spend big in free agency, so having a controllable arm around after Valdez potentially walks will be crucial.
This could also give Houston the edge they need to run away with the AL West at the end of the season. They could be one of baseball's busiest teams in the next week.
We'll see where they land in their search for pitching.
More MLB: Astros interested in 36 home run third baseman, according to MLB insider