Trade Deadline Rumor Round-up

We are getting closer to the trade deadline on saturday and the rumors coming out don’t sound like they are in the Astros’ favor. This is the latest news on some of the key Astros on the block.

Hunter Pence

It sounds like Hunter Pence will be staying with the Astros past the deadline, giving soon to be new owner Jim Crane to evaluate the right fielder. This has not stopped the pursuit by the Phillies, who from all indications, are pushing hard for Pence. The Astros are asking for a top pitching prospect and if the Phillies really want Hunter, the Astros need to demand Vance Worley, among others.

Yesterday it was reported that along with the Phillies, the Braves and Pirates are still pursing Pence but both are seen as long shots.

Michael Bourn

Unfortunately for the center fielder and the front office, but fortunate for the fans, Bourn is not generating a lot of interest. The guy has been playing great and I think along with Pence could solidify two thirds of their outfield for years to come. I have always thought the Atlanta Braves makes perfect sense for Bourn but Stephen Goff disagrees here. With the Nationals trading for outfielder Jonny Gomes, I think they are out. The one team I could see sneaking in at the last minute is the San Francisco Giants, if they lose out on Carlos Beltran.

Wandy Rodriguez

The Blue Jays were reported to be pursuing Wandy and I thought they would be out after trading for Edwin Jackson, but Jackson has been shipped to St. Louis and I would think the Blue Jays are back in. The Astros viewed Wandy as a top pitcher and was asking to be compensated as such but now that we are getting to the deadline it sounds like they are just trying to get rid of his contract now.

There is also rumors that the Astros had preliminary talks with the Arizona Diamondbacks about Wandy. I think this would be a great time for the Astros to move Clint Barmes as well seeing as the Diamondbacks need a shortstop with Stephen Drew going down.