Houston Astros Could Seek Rotation Boost with Potential Trade for Reds Starter

The Houston Astros may soon explore outside help for their pitching staff as the team searches for stability after an up-and-down start to the offseason. According to recent reporting, the Cincinnati Reds could emerge as a potential trade partner, offering the Astros a chance to reinforce a rotation that struggled with injuries and inconsistency last year. For fans in Houston, the possibility of adding a proven starter has already sparked interest as the club works to remain competitive in a tightening American League West race.

Astros Eyeing Rotation Support

Houston’s front office has made clear its desire to bolster the starting staff after relying heavily on young arms throughout the 2024 season. The Reds, holding a surplus of controllable starting pitchers, could offer a workable trade match. While the specific arm Houston may target has not been confirmed, several Reds starters have drawn league-wide interest due to their durability, age, and team-friendly contracts.

The Astros’ rotation depth thinned last year as injuries sidelined key veterans. Young pitchers stepped in, but the workload taxed the bullpen and placed pressure on the offense to compensate. Because of that, general manager Dana Brown has hinted that the team is open to aggressive roster moves this winter.

Why This Matters for the Houston Astros

Houston’s competitive window remains open, yet the team cannot afford to fall behind division rivals who have already upgraded. A mid-rotation or top-tier starter from Cincinnati could:

• Stabilize the early months of the season while injured pitchers return.
• Reduce bullpen strain and improve late-game performance.
• Provide playoff-quality innings if Houston returns to October baseball.

A reliable starter would also strengthen the club’s ability to limit opposing power, something that challenged Houston last season.

What’s Next for the Astros

The Astros are expected to weigh multiple trade options throughout December. Although free agency offers alternatives, the club’s preference for controllable starters makes Cincinnati an attractive partner. If talks progress, Houston could strike a deal before the end of the Winter Meetings.

Until then, fans should watch for rising rumors connecting the Astros and Reds as both teams explore roster strategies. With pitching at the core of Houston’s success over the past decade, any move to reinforce the rotation would signal the organization’s commitment to remaining a postseason threat.

This article is a summary of reporting by Sports Illustrated. Read the full story here.