HOUSTON — Acquiring a starting pitcher to solidify their injury-ravaged rotation remains the Houston Astros’ priority before Tuesday’s trade deadline, general manager Dana Brown said Friday, moments after witnessing the first meaningful starting pitching deal in a seller’s market. Prices, Brown said, remained “pretty high,” even after the Tampa Bay Rays traded Zach Eflin to the Baltimore Orioles for three prospects. The Astros pursued Eflin before Baltimore completed the trade, a league source with knowledge of the discussions said, but it would be a dereliction of duty if they didn’t.
Advertisement With Eflin off the market, multiple league sources said the Astros have shown interest in Jack Flaherty and Yusei Kikuchi , each of whom will be free agents after the season. The Athletic reported Thursday afternoon that Houston is one of many teams with interest in Chicago Cubs starter Jameson Taillon . Taillon, like Eflin, is under club control beyond this season, ideal for a Houston rotation bracing for more overhaul this winter.
Friday, Brown said acquiring a controllable pitcher would be “better, obviously,” but Houston is not limiting its search for reinforcements, nor is it concerned about payroll. Taillon is making $18 million this season. Both Flaherty and Kikuchi are making at least $12 million.
Acquiring any of them would send the Astros’ payroll further into uncharted territory. Outside approximations put the club about $2.2 million away from the se.