Astros Should Pursue Diamondbacks Veteran Merrill Kelly at Trade Deadline
The Houston Astros should be among the most active buyers at this year’s trade deadline. Despite a rocky start to the season, the Astros have found their stride and positioned themselves as serious contenders in the American League.
After a disappointing early playoff exit last year, the Astros have rebounded, overcoming injuries and a slow start to once again assert themselves as one of the top teams in the AL. With July upon us and no signs of slowing down, it’s time for Houston to act decisively at the trade deadline, bolstering their roster for a deep playoff run.
While their pitching staff has been surprisingly effective despite significant injuries, the Astros still face challenges. The ongoing injury concerns surrounding Yordan Alvarez and questions about outfield depth have created potential gaps, but the most pressing need remains the acquisition of a reliable starter to reinforce the rotation as they eye October baseball.
Adding a third ace to join Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown could make the Astros’ rotation formidable. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a blockbuster deal, but securing a veteran presence could provide the team with a deadly trio for the postseason.
In years past, Houston has been unafraid to pursue rental players, as evidenced by their trade for Yusei Kikuchi last season. This year, they might consider making a move for 36-year-old Merrill Kelly of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Kelly, a right-hander who has spent his entire seven-year career with the Diamondbacks, is having one of the best seasons of his career in 2025. He has posted a solid 3.55 ERA, a 1.087 WHIP, and 103 strikeouts to just 29 walks over 104 innings pitched, with a 7-4 record. Despite Arizona’s overall average performance, Kelly has been a standout.
Set to hit free agency after the season, Kelly wouldn’t come at the price of some of the higher-profile pitchers on the market, like Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins. This makes him an attractive target for the Astros, who may be looking for a dependable addition without giving up too much in return.
Kelly’s experience in high-pressure situations also makes him an intriguing option. He pitched to a stellar 2.25 ERA and 0.833 WHIP during the Diamondbacks’ postseason run to the World Series two years ago, showcasing his ability to perform on the big stage.
A seasoned veteran like Kelly could be the stabilizing force that takes the Astros’ already impressive rotation to the next level. With Valdez, Brown, and Kelly in the mix, the Astros would boast a trio of starters capable of dominating any playoff series.
As the trade deadline approaches in four weeks, the Astros should keep a close eye on Kelly as a potential addition to their pitching staff. A move like this could put them in prime position to reclaim their crown and make a deep October run.
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