Astros: 5 under-the-radar trade deadline candidates

Astros trade candidate: Ben Gamel would add depth to Houston’s outfield.

Ben Gamel was off to a horrible start with Cleveland last season, but turned the corner after joining the Pittsburgh Pirates. Gamel posted a respectable .750 OPS with the Buccos and re-signed for a little less than $2M during the offseason.

Pittsburgh is in full-on rebuild mode and will likely be shopping centerfielder Bryan Reynolds. However, while adding the Pirates’ All-Star outfielder would be a terrific acquisition for Houston, Reynolds will not come cheap.

Gamel, on the other hand might cost the Astros a mid-tier prospect at best. Gamel will be a free agent after the season, and while left field is his best position, the Florida native can play all three outfield spots.

Ben Gamel recently landed on the 10-day IL with a hamstring injury, but if the 30-year-old is able to show that he’s healthy upon his return, there’s no reason the Houston Astros shouldn’t at least inquire about his availability. Gamel would offer Dusty Baker a nice left-handed bat off the bench.