Astros Landing $8 Million Slugger Would Boost Lineup Ahead Of Trade Deadline
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FanSided's Zachary Rotman recently put together a hypothetical trade idea that would send Baltimore Orioles slugger Ryan O'Hearn to the Houston Astros in exchange for prospects A.J. Blubaugh and Parker Smith.
"In this deal, the Astros would acquire O'Hearn, a perfect fit for their lineup. In the short term, Houston can use him primarily as a DH, as Yordan Alvarez is still on the Injured List," Rotman wrote. "When Alvarez is healthy, O'Hearn can play in left field, with Walker etched in as the first baseman. O'Hearn won't provide stellar defense by any means, but he was an All-Star this season because of his bat, and his left-handed swing can add some much-needed balance to a right-handed heavy lineup."
BALTIMORE, MD - JUNE 29: Ryan O'Hearn #32 of the Baltimore Orioles takes a swing during a baseball game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on June 29, 2025 in...
BALTIMORE, MD - JUNE 29: Ryan O'Hearn #32 of the Baltimore Orioles takes a swing during a baseball game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on June 29, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. MoreBut would this trade idea make sense for both sides?
For the Astros, it would provide them with a versatile defender who would upgrade their lineup in a big way. O'Hearn, whether it be at first base, designated hitter, or in the outfield, would be an everyday player for the Astros. Houston would use him in a variety of ways as it looks to make a World Series push this season.
Pitching prospects are the biggest thing the Orioles need right now. Blubaugh is incredibly talented and could be ready to pitch in Baltimore as early as this season. The Orioles are likely looking to build their pitching rotation from the ground up, so a deal to acquire two talented young pitchers would be ideal.
This could be a slight overpay from the Astros, as it likely wouldn't cost a prospect as talented as Blubaugh to land O'Hearn, but the fit and groundwork make a lot of sense.
More MLB: Sandy Alcántara Blockbuster? Cubs Trade Rumors Reaching New Peak
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