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Astros Trade Stocks: Who’s Rising and Falling

By Issa Cook

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Jun 27, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Chris Young (24) runs the bases after he hit a two run home-run against Houston Astros starting pitcher Brett Oberholtzer (39) in the second inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

On the Decline: Brett Oberholtzer

It should come as no surprise to Astros fans that Brett Oberholtzer is on this list. Since the end of the 2013 season, Obie has been steadily on the decline. After his little incident in a high-pressure start against the Yankees, I’m not sure the Astros are confident in his ability to pitch well in a playoff push. The problem now becomes whether or not he has any trade value at the upcoming July 31st trade deadline.

Oberholtzer actually started this season well, looking refreshed from his stint in AAA Fresno. He had a 2.81 ERA with 23 strikeouts and a 2-1 record headed into that Yankees start. He pitched eight strong innings against the Mariners and shut down the Rockies as well. The signs were there, but then he just collapsed, and Astros management had no sympathy for his actions.

Now, after Obie’s WAR declined from 2.1 in 2013 to o.1 in 2015, the Astros front office needs to see if any team would want him in a package now. He really doesn’t have a future in Houston with Scott Feldman, Dallas Keuchel, Collin McHugh, McCullers, and Velasquez solidly in the starting rotation.

The Astros could reference his 2.1 2013 WAR and really solid start to the season as promising signs for the young lefty because he is a talented pitcher that has potential. It’ll be very interesting to see how the Astros decide to handle Oberholtzer, but it’s clear that Obie hasn’t helped his case with his recent performance.

Next: Houston Astros Second Half Preview

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