The Houston Astros have been extremely active in the trade market this season, with their name circulating around numerous talents, including Jack Flaherty and Vlad Guerrero Jr.
When Jake Bloss, their scheduled starting pitcher for Monday night’s game, was scratched without an injury, speculation arose that Houston had a trade in place with Bloss as the centerpiece. The “hug watch” was on in Houston, and the rumors proved true.
MLB Trade Grades: Toronto Sends Kikuchi to Houston in Exchange for Bloss
Kikuchi, 33, holds a 4.75 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, and 3.64 FIP over 115.2 innings pitched. He has a low walk rate of just 2.3 BB/9 while striking out over 10 batters per nine innings. In a market lacking starting pitching, Kikuchi was one of the more reliable and affordable options.
Bloss, 23, was the Astros’ ninth-ranked prospect. He has made three major league starts this year but struggled in those appearances. Despite this, he excelled in the minors and rose quickly through the ranks. Bloss still has significant potential, having only been hit hard at the major league level. At 23, the right-hander remains a promising talent.
Wagner, 25, is older for a prospect but has been impressive with his bat this year. In Triple-A, the infielder is slashing .307/.424/.429 with 21 extra-base hits, 54 walks, and only 33 strikeouts. Wagner’s ability to avoid strikeouts makes him a top-of-the-lineup candidate. Loperfido, 25, is also an intriguing player, slashing .236/.299/.358 in his rookie season. A former top prospect, Loperfido has great potential both as a runner and with the bat. The Astros may be giving up on him prematurely.
After the Mariners added Justin Turner and Randy Arozarena in their attempt to catch the Astros in the AL West, Houston had to respond. This trade was the anticipated move, but the Astros paid a steep price for Kikuchi.
The Blue Jays receive a substantial return for their expiring starter. Given the package, Houston might have been better off keeping Bloss in their rotation.