The Houston Astros are back to playing the brand of baseball that fans and opponents alike have come to expect. With a 36-29 record and a firm grip on first place in the AL West, the Astros are quickly shaking off a rocky start to the season and positioning themselves as legitimate contenders once again in the American League.
What’s more impressive is how they’ve done it, despite key injuries to both their rotation and starting lineup. The team’s resilience and depth have been on full display, and as the trade deadline approaches, Houston is expected to be an active buyer with one clear need: a left-handed bat.
Astros Thriving Despite Injuries to Key Players
Injuries to pitchers like Cristian Javier and Spencer Arrighetti, and stretches without Yordan Álvarez, could have derailed many teams. But Houston has found a way to stabilize, thanks in large part to a bullpen that has become one of the league’s most reliable.
Whether it’s Steven Okert, who has been a star in the bullpen, shutting down rallies, or closer Josh Hader silencing ninth-inning threats, the Astros’ bullpen has thrived in high-pressure moments. It’s been a critical component of their mid-season resurgence and has kept them competitive in tight ballgames.
The wild AL West belongs to the @Astros for the moment 👀 pic.twitter.com/ePINwppSGc
— MLB (@MLB) June 10, 2025
But as October looms, the Astros’ lineup still needs balance. The team has struggled at times against right-handed pitching, in part because of the lack of quality left-handed hitters beyond Álvarez. According to The Athletic, Houston’s top trade deadline priority is acquiring another left-handed bat who can slot into the lineup and provide consistent offensive production.
One intriguing option for Houston is Tampa Bay’s Brandon Lowe. The left-handed slugger has posted a 110 OPS+ and launched 13 home runs this year, making him an appealing blend of power and versatility at second base.
Lowe’s current deal includes a team option worth $11.5 million for 2026, meaning the Astros would gain more than a short-term rental. Given the Rays’ tendency to deal players approaching free agency in exchange for younger talent, a trade involving Lowe may be within reach if Houston is prepared to make the right offer.
Plenty of Players Who Can Make an Impact
Other potential targets include Josh Naylor (Diamondbacks), Luis Arraez (Padres), and Jarren Duran (Red Sox), but Lowe’s combination of power, experience, and contractual control makes him the ideal fit.
The market should be busy because several teams, including the Marlins, Athletics, and, surprisingly, Diamondbacks, are anticipated to sell. The Astros will be ready for another deep postseason run if they can acquire a trustworthy left-handed bat and keep getting good innings from their bullpen.