Welcome to the Wednesday Boil!
It’s time for the Wednesday Boil.
Even after losing five-of-seven, the Astros are still in first place. That is not a sustainable model for long-term success. It’s time for the rubber to meet the road and put these Mariners firmly in the rear-view mirror.
Astros know where to start in trade talks (it’s pitching)
Hunter Brown, Astros attempt to cool Athletics’ bats (Deadspin)
Astros insider: Series loss in Oakland underscores need for rotation help (Houston Chronicle)
Two dismal days in Oakland accentuate Astros’ trade deadline needs (NY Times)
Astros fans frustrated amid latest update on Kyle Tucker (Larry Brown Sports)
AL West News
M’s: Mariners place OF Julio Rodriguez, SS J.P. Crawford on IL (KNBR)
Blarts: Giants claim speedy outfielder off waivers from Rangers (NBC)
A’s: A’s sizzling-hot Lawrence Butler falls just short of cycle in blowout of Astros (SF Chronicle)
Halos: Bryan Woo Is a Low-Slot Success Story (FG)
MLB News
9 clubs that should be all-in at the Trade Deadline
The latest rumors on Skubal, plus ‘the Dodgers are in on Arozarena’
6 X-factors who will shape the rest of the season
The time Sabathia was banned from eating cheesesteaks in Philly clubhouse
Skenes pitches into 9th for first time in a unique first loss
Top of the Order: A Week Out From the Trade Deadline (FG)
Lynn gets his 2,000th K in MLB — and the ball, after a trade
Puppies with ‘staches? It must be Pawl Skenes night
How badly will Mike Trout’s injuries affect his legacy? (YB)
Jazz Chisholm Jr. appears to have request for MLB after terrible call (YB)
Disappointing Reds Open To Trading Away Rental Players (YB)
Houston Astros BIrthdays
IF Jason Smith (47) made Houston the last of his eight major league teams in 2009, going 0-for-25 with zero walks. He did collect an RBI with a sacrifice fly.
OF Eduardo Perez (18) has a .698 career OPS in 46 games at the rookie level in the DSL.