The Houston Astros made a major move on Friday, trading star outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for three players. In return, the Astros received a big-league infielder, a starting pitcher, and a highly regarded infield prospect. According to FanSided’s Zachary Rotman, this trade signals the Astros’ intent to continue reshaping their roster.
Rotman recently speculated that Houston is unlikely to re-sign future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander in free agency. Verlander, whose previous contract paid him over $40 million annually, may have to settle for a deal near the league minimum if he returns. “The team might consider bringing him back for depth, especially in the pitching rotation,” Rotman wrote. “However, Verlander has shown he can’t consistently pitch every fifth day. At 41, and turning 42 by Opening Day, retirement seems more likely than a reunion with the Astros.”
While the Tucker trade was significant, it likely wasn’t the driving factor behind the Astros’ decision regarding Verlander. Houston’s acquisition of Hayden Wesneski, a pitcher who has made occasional starts with the Cubs, points to a focus on short-term depth rather than long-term solutions. Ultimately, Verlander’s departure from Houston seems inevitable, regardless of the trade involving Tucker.
