Many skeptics consider the Astros an early-season flash destined to fade. But the team could turn them into believers if they trade for Phillies ace Cole Hamels.
Such a deal remains a longshot, CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman reports. His $24 million annual deal could prove cost-prohibitive. But pairing Hamels with emerging ace Dallas Keuchel might make the Astros the favorite to win an American League West in which they currently own a 5 1/2-game lead.
"The goaL is a No. 1 or 2," said a person familiar with what Houston is seeking. General manager Jeff Luhnow amended that to include a 1-3 starter strong enough to pitch in a hypothetical postseason scenario.
The Astros and their rich farm system boast the talent to entice the Phillies, who are attempting to maximize the trade potential of Hamels. But Houston is also one of 20 teams on the list in his no-trade clause. It remains to be seen if he would waive it to pitch for a Houston team he likely didn't believe would emerge so quickly as a contender.