1 trade Astros could make right now to shake off the Athletics

If the Houston Astros want to take home the AL West title later this year, they need to go out and trade for Michael Fulmer.

While there are several intriguing MLB division battles ready to go on for the rest of the campaign, the one out in the AL West sure is interesting. The Oakland Athletics currently hold the top spot in the standings, but the mighty Houston Astros are only 1.5 games back.

The Astros figure to be quite busy leading up to the trade deadline on July 30. One player in particular they should go after to help improve the bullpen is no question Detroit Tigers hurler Michael Fulmer.

The Houston Astros should make trading for Michael Fulmer a top priority

While Fulmer can also start for Houston, he’s enjoyed an incredible amount of success with Detroit as a reliever. This was a midseason switch for him, and things have gone more than swimmingly. Fulmer has been downright dominant in late-inning situations for Detroit, with his fastball flirting with 100 MPH multiple times.

This has been incredible to see for veteran manager A.J. Hinch, who of course is quite familiar with the Houston organization. Should Fulmer make his way to Houston, he could stay in that bullpen role, or potentially give the Astros some valuable starts as well this summer. That versatility is why the 6-foot-3, 245-pounder will surely be a hot commodity leading up to the deadline next month.

The Tigers are currently 26-39 on the year, 15 games back of the AL Central-leading Chicago White Sox. It’s been another frustrating year for the Tigers faithful, but Fulmer has most definitely been a pleasant surprise. He’d land Detroit a handsome return too. Look for Houston to try and get something done here.