The Houston Astros are reportedly eyeing pitching help before the July trade deadline, and right-hander A.J. Blubaugh – the club’s No. 9 prospect – could be in play.
Blubaugh has struggled this year at Triple-A Sugar Land, posting a 6.06 ERA over 38.2 innings. He made his MLB debut on April 30 but was quickly optioned back to the minors.
In that one start, he gave up seven runs on five hits, with six strikeouts.
Still, Blubaugh’s raw stuff and strikeout ability are encouraging. He has punched out 28 batters in just 21 Triple-A innings this year. Reports claim that his fastball sits in the mid-90s with a plus changeup.
Astros coach Joe Espada praised Blubaugh’s confidence after his debut, saying he “did not back down” on the mound.
With veterans Lance McCullers Jr. and Hayden Wesneski healthy again, Houston didn’t have room for Blubaugh on the Opening Day roster, so he remains depth in the minors for now.
Astros in Contention and Other Prospects on the Move
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Houston has stayed competitive this season. As of early June, the Astros were 31-27. According to reports, Houston has “thrust themselves back into first place in the AL West” and “are squarely in the race for a playoff spot,” which points to the club being buyers and not sellers at the July deadline.
Notably, Blubaugh isn’t the only Houston prospect whose name has come up. Shay Whitcomb, the team’s No. 15 prospect, has showcased impressive power this season with 17 home runs in just 52 games.
Zach Cole, the Astros’ No. 21 prospect, is another name surfacing in trade discussions. Known for his power-speed combination, Cole had a standout 2023 season, hitting 19 home runs and stealing 37 bases in 111 games.
The Astros’ brass will have to decide whether Blubaugh and these youngsters help Houston win now or can be flipped for MLB-ready talent.
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