Where Are They Now? Houston Astros Trades Part 2; 2012

Lance Berkman—>Mark Melancon—>Jed Lowrie

Jed Lowrie (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports)

Jed Lowrie instantly became a favorite of mine. I had always liked him as a player, and hoped he could stay healthy. Coming to Houston he received a shot in the arm AKA consistent playing time and his numbers took off. Unfortunately he got hurt again, but was on his way to an All-Star season in 2012, just to be hindered and eventually DL’d.

After the 2012 season Jed Lowrie was deemed healthy enough by the medical staff in Oakland to acquire a much needed bat-first but more than capable fielder to man shortstop with Stephen Drew‘s half a season rental turning out to be… well, a rental.

Lowrie was dealt in what has potential to be one of the greatest trades in Jeff Luhnow’s tenure when it’s all said and done — all things considered. For all the things being considered, see the “—>’s” above and what became of Melancon/Paredes for Berkman.

The Astros acquired former top prospect Chris Carter, along with current high-ranking prospects Brad Peacock and Max Stassi. A power hitter, a potential-packed pitcher nearly big league ready and a long-term catcher option that everyone was excited about. I wrote about the deal and all my excitement here.

As for Lowrie, he would give and is still giving Oakland a terrific and versatile infield presence and lineup presence, which sucks because it’s Oakland, but is great because it’s Jed.