Houston Astros weigh trade options as deadline approaches

The Houston Astros sit at 33‑40, fourth in the American League West, and face the August 3 trade deadline with a season far below expectations. General manager Dana Brown has indicated the club does not intend to be sellers, but a continued slump could force a change in strategy.

Key players deemed untouchable include designated hitter Yordan Alvarez, who is batting .326/.433/.651 with 24 home runs and 54 RBIs and is under contract through 2028. Young pitcher Spencer Arrighetti (7‑2, 2.57 ERA) remains on a low‑cost pre‑arbitration deal, while prospect starter Hunter Brown, who posted a 0.84 ERA before a shoulder injury, is slated to start on Tuesday and carries a $5.71 million arbitration salary. Reliever Bryan King, a pre‑arbitration pitcher with a 2.37 ERA, is also considered essential as the Astros seek to stabilize a bullpen plagued by injuries.