Astros Rumors: 3 Trade Targets after missing out on Luis Castillo

There’s no hiding the fact that the Astros need catching help. Prospect catcher Korey Lee isn’t ready for the MLB. Martin Maldonaldo has lost some of his defensive prowess due to being asked to play so much. Plus, in no universe is Martin a capable hitter in the MLB. His bat belongs in the minors if not for his leadership and glove.

This is where Cubs catcher Willson Contreras comes into play. If the Astros acquired him, they would be absolutely loaded for the playoffs. The rental catcher would have his shot at his second World Series ring. Everyone knows that the Cubs are going to trade Willson, including Willson himself.

Willson is coming off his 3rd All-Star appearance in his career and it’s been a great platform year. He’s hitting .256 with a .837 OPS and a 134 OPS+. Those are mind-numbingly amazing numbers for a catcher. Those are amazing numbers in general. He’s hit 20 doubles, 14 home runs, and 37 RBI in the Cubs pathetic offense. While his defense isn’t great, the Astros could still keep Maldonaldo behind the dish for certain games. This would allow them to start Contreras at first base or DH. That would keep Yordan healthy for the playoffs too.

Contreras is on pace for multiple career-high numbers, including his WAR where he’s already at 2.8. He’s affordable too as he’s only owed roughly $4 million more this season. This limits the luxury tax hit on the Astros.

No matter what happens this MLB trade deadline, these Astros rumors must come true. At least one of these Astros rumors has to happen in order for the Astros to have a successful postseason. The MLB trade deadline is where teams can win or lose the postseason. The Astros know what it takes to win. Now they must pay the price.