As the July 31 trade deadline approaches, the Astros are focused on strengthening their lineup with a left-handed bat, and Baltimore Orioles center fielder Cedric Mullins has been their prime target for the role. However, the Orioles’ inconsistent play and cryptic front-office signals have puzzled the baseball world, as scouts and executives await clarity on Baltimore’s deadline strategy.
Despite Astros’ Aggressive Push For Cedric Muller, Baltimore Stays Silent
The Astros already have quite a capable team. Nevertheless, the management plans to fine-tune the roster even further. General Manager Dana Brown has explicitly shared his thoughts about the team needing a left-handed hitter to balance Houston’s righty-heavy lineup, especially with star slugger Yordan Alvarez being sidelined by a fracture in his hand.
Astros Interested In Cedric Mullins https://t.co/pQFY2OCA29 pic.twitter.com/HIIh7iZQEV
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) June 29, 2025
Cedric Mullins, a 30-year-old former All-Star and Silver Slugger winner, fits the bill perfectly for the Astros’ current needs. Despite a down year, his .213/.295/.412 slash line with 12 homers in 272 plate appearances this season is still very appealing as a potential rental bat for not just the Astros, but every baseball team that is currently in play.
On the other hand, in Baltimore, the Orioles (36-47) are uncertain about their position. Seven games out of a Wild Card spot, they’ve shown some flashes of brilliance, like their 22-run outing against the Rays and more, yet they have stumbled badly, nearly getting no-hit in three of their last four games.
General Manager Mike Elias hasn’t shared any intent or hesitation about participating in a trade, and all the team and its representatives have said so far is that they are prepared to be both buyers and sellers. This ambiguity has confused scouts and fans alike, and they are unsure if Baltimore will double down on a playoff push or deal veterans like Mullins, who’s set to hit free agency this winter.
For Houston, Mullins would likely not patrol center, where Jake Meyers excels defensively. Instead, he’d slot into left field, potentially shifting Jose Altuve back to second base full-time. With roughly $2.8MM left on Mullins’ $8.725MM salary, the move aligns with Houston’s recent financial constraints, leaving room for additional tweaks as Alvarez and outfielder Chas McCormick near returns from injury.
As the July deadline approaches, the Astros’ pursuit of Mullins shows how much they want to commit to securing another championship. On the other hand, Baltimore’s next moves will show whether they’re still all-in or if they plan to rebuild. Nothing can be said at this point except that the trade deadline will witness much drama, and Mullins could be the piece that tilts the board.