MLB Trade Rumors: Astros Discuss Gerrit Cole Deal, Darvish And Arrieta Are Options

Toward the end of 2017, rumors were circulating that the New York Yankees and Pittsburgh Pirates were discussing a trade involving Gerrit Cole. Some reports even indicated that it was only a matter of time before the Bronx Bombers would acquire the starting pitcher.

A week into 2018, however, a new contender for Cole has emerged. The Houston Astros have spoken with Pittsburgh about a possible trade, and the team could also be eyeing the likes of Yu Darvish and Jake Arrieta in free agency.

According to Yahoo Sports’ Jeff Passan, the defending champs are looking to add another frontline starter. Houston is looking ahead to the future, even beyond the 2018 MLB season, which is starter Dallas Keuchel’s last with the club before he hits free agency.

The Astros’ strength on the way toward winning their first-ever World Series was their lineup. Houston led all of baseball in runs scored, batting average, on-base percentage and slugging percentage. Second baseman Jose Altuve won the AL MVP award, winning yet another batting title. Three Houston players ranked in the top nine in AL OPS, and Carlos Correa was just a few at-bats short of qualifying to rank fifth.

In the postseason, the Astros did have to rely on starting pitching in order to reach the Fall Classic. When Houston’s bats fell silent in the ALCS, Justin Verlander allowed one run in 16 innings to win the series MVP award.

Cole has been one of the hottest commodities this offseason because of Pittsburgh’s openness to trading him. Even after coming off the worst year of his career with a 4.26 ERA, Cole is 27 years old with a 3.50 ERA in five seasons. He’s under contract through the 2019 season.

Rumors of discussions between the Yankees and Pirates seem to have cooled off in recent weeks. New York is reportedly unwilling to trade top prospect Gleyber Torres, whom Pittsburgh inquired about.

The chances of the Astros signing either Darvish or Arrieta could be increasing by the day. With both players unsigned, it’s clear that neither one has been offered the lucrative contract that they are seeking. The St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs have both reportedly considered making an offer to the top free agent pitchers.

The Yankees could be in play for Darvish, but only if his price tag drops.