Astros Trade Targets Include Sandy Alcantara, Ryan Helsley

At Daikin Park in Houston, Astros trade targets are already becoming part of the daily conversation as the club weighs its next move. A new report from Sports Illustrated pointed to two players who match Houston's current needs: a frontline starter in Sandy Alcantara and a late-inning arm in Ryan Helsley.

That pairing makes sense for a team trying to stay aggressive in the American League race. Houston has leaned on pitching depth for most of the season, and any shot at adding impact talent before the deadline is going to draw attention across the city.

Sports Illustrated's list focused on fit more than splash. Alcantara gives the Astros a high-upside rotation option if they want to chase a proven starter. Helsley offers another path, strengthening the bullpen with one of baseball's more established relievers. Both players would fill clear roles on a contender that expects to play meaningful games deep into the season.

Astros trade targets match two clear roster needs

Alcantara stands out because Houston has long valued starters who can handle pressure innings and work deep into games. His track record makes him an easy name to connect to the Astros, even if any deal for a pitcher of that caliber would come with a steep asking price. A move like that would be about adding another arm capable of changing a playoff series.

Helsley fits the other obvious need. Bullpen help is always in demand near the trade deadline, and a reliever with closing experience carries extra value for a club with October goals. Houston would not need him to carry the entire relief group. It would need him to shorten games and add another trusted option late.

Houston's front office has familiar deadline pressure

The Astros have built a reputation for staying active when the roster calls for help, so these Astros trade targets land in a believable lane. The front office has chased pitching before, and this season's formula does not look much different. If Houston believes one addition can stabilize the rotation or bullpen, it has reason to explore both markets.

No trade appears close based on the report, and Sports Illustrated framed both names as potential fits rather than imminent moves. That distinction matters. Rumor season always produces a long list of possibilities, but Alcantara and Helsley connect directly to what Houston could use most.

The next stretch of games should sharpen the Astros' deadline approach, especially if the club decides it needs help on the mound before the market tightens. If either name gains traction, Houston's pursuit will likely come down to prospect cost and how aggressively the front office wants to push for another postseason run.

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