Astros: Three bold predictions for the regular season

3. The Astros will make a trade to clear space and add a blockbuster arm or bat

Some fans were anticipating a possible trade to free open space to not border the luxury tax threshold, but at this moment, nothing happened and Steve Cishek has been released. While his veteran arm could’ve been helpful down the stretch, it looks like the Astros will rely on prospects for depth.

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As seen in 2017, the Astros went after that strong starter to help end their regular season with Verlander, and for 2021, they could be looking to do the same. GM James Click has been a slow mover to say the least, but he knows what he is doing and has ideas brewing that we don’t. He is not Jeff Luhnow, and that is perfectly fine, if he makes a move at the trade deadline.

A fan speculation of being traded has been utility player Aledmys Diaz, while the team shouldn’t sacrifice more minor leaguers as one of the worst rated farm systems in baseball. There isn’t much the Astros can move to free open space as Verlander and Greinke won’t be on the radar of opposing teams to trade for, meaning a few lower contract arms could be on the move, if the team looks to go big on a key addition. The offense is pretty much set, so if the Astros could possibly acquire an All-Star starter without blowing up their farm system even more, then it is their best bet to go after it.

If these three bold predictions shake out during the regular season, this Astros team has a great chance of making another World Series. While the team won’t look the exact same compared to the past few years, there is talent, and by progression, Houston could stand at the top of the AL by the end of the regular season.

In the end, these are bold predictions from someone high on the potential of the team that he writes about. If one of the core contributors falls off due to injury, then there is a good chance the dynasty is coming to a close. With Correa waiting for a possible extension before Opening Day, it would behoove the Astros’ front office to get this done now to solidify a successful future in the offense and shortstop position.