Astros open to adding lefty hitting outfielder

[Cory Engelhardt]

This note came out a couple of days ago now, but I was curious if people saw a match for Kepler and Houston? 

I feel like Kepler is maybe trending towards being a Twin for 2024, but is there a fit in Houston that would make sense? What do you think?

 

https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/01/astros-trade-rumors-left-handed-outfielder-free-agency.html

[chpettit19]

If he's not open to moving to CF or LF I don't see him as a fit. If he'd move to LF and they like McCormick in CF then they could have some interest in him. But Dana Brown says they'd like speed specifically, and that's not exactly Kepler's calling card even if he isn't slow.

[nicksaviking]

The Twins don't want (and shouldn't be looking for) prospects in return. I don't see what impactful MLB players Houston would be offering up. Mabey Bryan Abreu? Would Houston even be interested in weakening their bullpen? Seems they'd more likely try to find a team that would want prospects.

[Cory Engelhardt]

I guess I was thinking maybe as bigger proposal to go after someone even like Christian Javier. I know he has an extension through 2027, and he had a down year in 2023 compared to 2022, but I've always really liked his stuff. Just a thought. 

But I agree, I'm not certain Kepler is A) Getting traded or B)Even a good fit in Houston.

[jorgenswest]

The Astros have two centerfielders and both hit right handed. Jake Meyers is entering his age 28 season and hasn’t hit yet. Nick Gordon has shown one good season and could be a better platoon fit with their outfield. Meyers has options left. Does this help either team?

[tony&rodney]

The Twins aren't exactly deep in outfielders. Kepler is the best outfielder on the club right now. Houston would be crazy to trade Javier. Abreu is a really tough relief pitcher. I don't know how any trade would work with Houston. Never say never.

[jorgenswest]

Brought this back because maybe this is the kind of move that works within the budget constraints. The Twins have Larnach or Gordon to send in exchange for Meyers in a trade of players whose opportunity window is closing but young enough to capture that potential.

The Angels may also have a need for a left handed hitter. They added Hicks but he is better from the right side and makes Jo Adell redundant. They might be open to a swap of outfielders where the opportunity window is closing.

[tony&rodney]

Just a spitball continued from my previous comment .... maybe Kepler for Abreu. The Twins strengthen their bullpen and open a spot for Castro/Gordon/Larnach/Martin to get some playing time .... and it relieves those (not me) who have been waiting for the day when Kepler no longer was a Twin.

[RpR]

On 1/25/2024 at 6:46 PM, tony&rodney said:

The Twins aren't exactly deep in outfielders. Kepler is the best outfielder on the club right now. Houston would be crazy to trade Javier. Abreu is a really tough relief pitcher. I don't know how any trade would work with Houston. Never say never.

NEVER!