Houston Astros GM Reveals Trade Deadline Target

The Houston Astros are in an unfamilar position at this time of the season, five games back of first place in the AL West Division. Even their grip on a Wild Card spot is tenuous, at just half a game. 

New GM Dana Brown has now revealed what his team is looking for in terms of upgrades at the trade deadline. 

We’re having meetings about trade, and if we can add a bat, that would be outstanding. We’re not opposed to adding another arm if it makes sense and if the deal is right, but I really feel like the pitching has carried us for the most part this season. 

… A left-handed bat would be exciting, but any bat that can hit both sides, that’s actually good too. In terms of position, if you can get a guy that can play multiple positions, that would be great. You could give some guys some time in the outfield, give the first baseman a day, give the DH a day. Having a guy that’s versatile — that would be ideal.

With Kyle Tucker currently the only healthy left-hander in the everyday lineup, a lefty-swinging bat with some versatility would come in handy for the 'Stros. Lefty-swingers Yordan Alvarez and Michael Brantley (who hasn't played yet this season) are on the injured list. 

Cody Bellinger of the slumping Chicago Cubs and the superfluous Cavan Biggio of the Toronto Blue Jays are two names that come to mind that should be available, and would fit the bill for what Brown is looking for. 

Still over a month and a half to go before the trade deadline, so other names could be added to this list as teams decide they're no longer in the race.

Photo: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports