Astros Lead AL West, Seek Lineup, Pitching Boosts Before Trade Deadline

The Houston Astros are leading the American League West and are actively preparing for the MLB trade deadline to strengthen their roster for a World Series push. Despite losing key players like Kyle Tucker and Alex Bregman, the team has performed well, though injuries have impacted both their rotation and lineup, prompting a focus on adding offensive depth, particularly at second base or left field. A proposed trade to acquire Baltimore Orioles slugger Ryan O'Hearn, an All-Star with a strong bat, could bolster the Astros' lineup, especially with Yordan Alvarez currently injured; Houston might offer pitching prospects A.J. Blubaugh and Parker Smith in exchange. Additionally, the Astros are considering pitching reinforcements, including targeting former NL Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara from the Miami Marlins, as their rotation beyond starters Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown remains uncertain. Meanwhile, pitcher J.P. France has begun a rehab assignment after shoulder surgery, potentially strengthening Houston's pitching depth later in the season. Overall, the Astros are balancing upgrades in both offense and pitching to maintain their division lead and contend for the AL pennant.