Houston Astros Have Their 'Dream Acquisition' in Mind at Trade Deadline

The Houston Astros may seek to push for a starting pitcher at the trade deadline and one publication has identified the 'dream' candidate.

The Houston Astros could use a starting pitcher at the trade deadline, and according to one report, they have a “dream” candidate.

The New York Post reported on Tuesday that the Chicago White Sox are edging closer to being sellers at the Aug. 1 trade deadline. The White Sox have a wealth of starting pitching that they could deal, including Lance Lynn and Lucas Giolito.

But there is one starting pitcher for the White Sox that the Post called the Astros’ “dream acquisition,” and that’s Dylan Cease.

"They (Houston Astros) would love to get Dylan Cease from the White Sox.," per the Post. "Now, a lot of teams would love to get Dylan Cease. He's one of the four guys — I wouldn't say untouchable -- but close to untouchable. So they'd have to pay a big price to add Dylan Cease."

There are two good reasons the White Sox might be reticent to part with Cease. First, he’s perhaps their best starting pitcher, even though this year’s numbers are average by his standards — 4-3 with a 4.18 ERA.

Last year he went 14-8 with a 2.20 ERA and finished second in American League Cy Young voting. In 2021 he went 13-7 with a 3.91 ERA.

Second, Cease is not a free agent. He won’t be until 2026, meaning whoever acquires him controls his rights for two more seasons.

That would make him a meaningful acquisition for a team that is having issues with starting pitching, both now and in the future. It also means the price would be steep.

But the Astros definitely have a need. They have already lost Lance McCullers Jr. and Luis Garcia for the season. José Urquidy is on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Sugar Land.

Plus, Framber Valdez — the Astros’ best starter all season — left Saturday’s game with the Los Angeles Angels with tightness in his calf and it’s not certain he’ll make his next start on Friday.

"Cease is their dream acquisition if they can do it," the Post concluded.

It’s something to keep an eye on as the trade deadline grows closer.

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