Three Interesting Trade Targets the Houston Astros Should Consider

Despite their share of adversity and injuries this season, the Houston Astros remain in contention for the title.

At the All-Star break, the Astros are 50-46, just one game behind the Seattle Mariners in the American League West race.

Dana Brown, the team’s general manager, has been vocal about his desire to acquire players at the trade deadline. Any idea of ​​selling talent appears to have been abandoned. He would like to acquire a starting pitcher and possibly a first baseman as well if the opportunity presents itself.

With that in mind, here are three surprise trade candidates Houston should look to acquire before the deadline.

3. Josh Bell, first base, Miami Marlins

The first player on the list is a first baseman. Bell may not be a flashy name, but he would still be a quality addition for the Astros.

During the 2024 season with the Marlins, Bell played in 94 games. He hit .228/.289/.356 with nine home runs and 39 RBIs. Those numbers may not be great, but he is capable of doing better.

Bell won’t cost much to acquire and is set to become a free agent after the 2024 season. At worst, he’ll be a cheap addition that can be parted with once the year is over.

2. Justin Turner, first base, Toronto Blue Jays

Justin Turner of the Blue Jays could also be a top target. He is a veteran who has proven he is capable of producing a lot throughout his career.

This season, Turner is hitting .231/.335/.345 with five home runs and 29 RBIs in 80 games.

In 2023, however, he hit 23 home runs and drove in 96 runs, with a batting average of .276/.345/.455. He is more than capable of returning to that level of production.

Turner, like Bell, will become a free agent after the 2024 season. He would also be a cheap addition and could be exactly the midseason rental Houston needs to contend.

1. Cal Quantrill, starting pitcher, Colorado Rockies

Finally, there is a surprise pitcher the Astros should consider.

Quantrill started 19 games this season for the Rockies, going 6-7 with a 4.13 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 78 strikeouts in 102.1 innings.

Pitching at Coors Field is never an easy task for a starting pitcher. Quantrill has put up some great numbers for the situation he’s in. A trade to Houston would help him get some better numbers.

Not only would the Astros get Quantrill for this season, but he would also have another year of contract control. That would fit what Houston wants and he could be a key part of the Astros’ middle rotation for the remainder of 2024 and 2025.