Astros Pursue Multiple Left-Handed Hitters Ahead MLB Trade Deadline

The Houston Astros are actively seeking to acquire a left-handed hitter ahead of the 2025 MLB trade deadline due to injuries sidelining key players and a recent slump marked by a losing streak. Their depleted lineup, lacking in left-handed bats with players like Yordan Alvarez and Jacob Melton out, has driven them to target several potential candidates including Twins utilityman Willi Castro, Diamondbacks outfielder Jake McCarthy, and Marlins outfielder Jesús Sánchez, who offers consistent production against right-handed pitching. Additionally, insiders have linked the Astros to Orioles' Ryan O'Hearn and Rays' Brandon Lowe as possible trade options, with O'Hearn presenting a strong offensive profile and Lowe offering multi-year control. The urgency to bolster the lineup has escalated, with the Astros now ranked second in the MLB trade deadline urgency index, reflecting their pressing need to reinforce both offense and pitching due to multiple injuries. General manager Dana Brown has openly acknowledged the team's strategy focusing on acquiring a left-handed hitter, with a preference for an infielder but remaining flexible in their search. The trade deadline approach is critical for Houston to maintain their lead in the AL West amid increasing competition from the Seattle Mariners.