Astros: Five trade targets to consider this offseason

Trade Target #5: OF Nick Castellanos

So, the Astros were intent on acquiring another outfielder during the summer, even though it ultimately didn’t work out. The nixed deal for Bryce Harper attracted most of the attention over the weekend. But there were other outfielders linked to the Astros, such as Nick Castellanos.

The Tigers are in the middle of the rebuild, which makes sense why they would explore trading the age-26 outfielder. Throw in the fact that Castellanos is only under club control through 2019 and Detroit’s motivation becomes even clearer.

2018 stats: .298/.354/.500, 23 HR, 89 RBI, 7.2% BB%, 22.3% K%, 130 wRC+

A fine hitter in his own regard, Castellanos was primarily utilized as a right fielder in 2018. Prior to 2018, he also spent quite a bit of time as a third baseman. However, the advanced defensive metrics did not particularly like him in either position as he consistently ran a negative DRS and UZR. Castellanos appears to be a prime candidate for a DH role in Detroit or another AL club.

With only one year of club control remaining, the Astros appear to be an ideal fit for Castellanos. For one, Houston may not want another player blocking prospects like Tucker or Alvarez. The current Tiger would likely play in left field or as a DH with Houston. In terms of prospects, a potential trade shouldn’t be all that substantial. While the Tigers would like to recoup some value, most clubs aren’t going to part ways with multiple top prospects for a corner outfielder or DH with only one year of club control.