One waiver trade deadline deal every MLB team should make

Much like the Chicago Cubs, though even more unexpectedly, the Houston Astros became a playoff contender at least one year earlier than expected. Because of the team’s good work, Astros decision makers opted to add a few missing pieces in July and early August.

The Astros acquired left-handed reliever Oliver Perez in early August, and after a busy July that brought Carlos Gomez, Scott Kazmir and Mike Fiers to Houston, general manager Jeff Lunhow says the team has filled all of its needs – but Lunhow still has his eyes and ears open.

“There’s a lot of activity on the trade waiver wire and we’re monitoring it, but I think we’ve addressed the main areas that we wanted to address going into this trade season,” Luhnow said, according to Evan Drellich of the Houston Chronicle. “Obviously we’re going to be opportunistic if somebody pops up.”

There really aren’t any holes on the Major League roster, though one area that could use slightly more depth is the bullpen. Sure, the Astros have the third best bullpen ERA in the Majors (2.73), but as good as relievers like Luke Gregerson, Chad Qualls, Pat Neshek, Will Harris and Tony Sipp have been, you can never have too much pitching.

Someone like San Diego’s Shawn Kelley would be great, but probably wouldn’t make it through waivers. John Axford or Rafael Betancourt of the Rockies may be a more attainable option.

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