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Astros Rumors: The Latest on a Verlander/Wilson Trade
With 4 days left until the trade deadline, Astros fans wonder what the organization will do in search of a World Series
Justin Verlander and Justin Wilson have been hot topics in Astros trade talks. Myself, along with our editor Eric Huysman wrote about them, but it looks unlikely to happen this way.
Finally, the chances of a Justin Wilson-Justin Verlander package deal with any club between now and Monday are not good. #verycomplex
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 27, 2017
Now, speculation about the Astros and their desire for a starting pitcher has shrunk. Both Dallas Keuchel and Collin McHugh have returned, so the need has moved to the back burner.
However, the Tigers may not want to trade Verlander. To justify the trade, they will want a big return. Moreover, Verlander may be upholding his no-trade clause. The hashtag in the Tweet above is the main reason the trade doesn’t happen. The salary and prospect issues are not something easy to work out.
According to Jerry Crasnick, the chance that the Tigers trade Wilson and Verlander as a package is not likely. All in all, this isn’t the worst news in the world for the Astros.
Interest is in Wilson
There is a lot to like about Wilson. He is a talented left-handed pitcher. Wilson has closer-like stuff and can shut down opposing hitters on both sides of the plate. He offers an immediate impact for the team, and be the answer late in playoff games.
According to Crasnick, the Astros continue to remain interested in him. Crasnick also said that Astros have yet to make an offer to get the deal done yet. This is probably a negotiation tactic.
The #Astros have expressed interest in Wilson, but indications are they haven't made an offer to distinguish themselves from the pack.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 27, 2017
A Smart Move
Jeff Luhnow is not going to repeat what happened at the 2015 trade deadline. So, making an offer that doesn’t stand out is not necessarily a bad thing. There is no real need to throw everything at the Tigers just yet.
The Astros will be in Detroit this weekend, so they will have a front row seat to watch this situation develop. Luhnow and staff will move when needed. Keep in mind. The Tigers have yet to receive an offer that truly drops their jaws. If so, then Wilson would not be on the market now.
The Silver Lining
This is a great thing for the Astros. They now have more cards to play with regarding what’s possible. They know their offer type, and what it will take to jump in front of the pack. Better yet, they know they have the prospects necessary to do that.
Next: Astros Rumors: Are the Astros the frontrunners for Sonny Gray?
All in all, the Astros starting rotation is taking form. A single trade for Wilson would be much more ideal for this organization.
***Info courtesy of Jerry Crasnick***