Houston Astros Linked to Duo of Tigers Pitchers Ahead of Trade Deadline

There is a lot of uncertainty surround what the Houston Astros will do before the trade deadline.

They were clear that they were looking for pitching. Then they said they no longer are looking at starters. Now, there are reports they are still in talks with the New York Mets to get Justin Verlander.

Former MLB front office executive and writer for The Athletic, Jim Bowden, recently wrote he's hearing the Astros are interested in the Detroit Tigers' starting pitchers Eduardo Rodriguez and Michael Lorenzen.

With the additions that the Texas Rangers have made before the deadline, there could be some internal pressure on the front office to make a big move of their own.

Rodriguez and Lorenzen would be huge additions to Houston's pitching staff.

Both players are having arguably the best seasons in their career. Lorenzen was an All-Star selection and has posted his lowest ERA of 3.58 since becoming a starter. Rodriguez also has the lowest ERA of his career this season with a 2.95.

In return, the Tigers are looking for everyday position players according to Bowden.

With the Astros' farm system depleted when it comes to top assets, they are looking to move their already established big league players. A name to watch is outfielder Jake Meyers, who has fallen a bit out of favor this season, but has shown he can be an everyday MLB player.

Another plus for Houston is both the right hander Lorenzen and left hander Rodriguez have experience working out of the bullpen as well. This could give them major flexibility later in the season when figuring out the rotation.

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