MLB Trade Rumors

“A really, really freak accident” is now Spencer Arrighetti described the batting-practice incident that resulted in a broken right thumb for the Astros pitcher.  Last Monday, Arrighetti was in the outfield playing catch while the Mariners were taking BP, and a line drive from the batter’s box struck the right-hander before Arrighetti could properly react.  As the pitcher told … [Read more...] about Astros Notes: Arrighetti, Gusto, Rodgers

Former NL Rookie of the Year and longtime big leaguer Tommy Helms passed away today at age 83.  Helms played in 14 seasons with the Reds, Astros, Pirates, and Red Sox from 1964-77, and he managed the Reds on an interim basis over 64 games during the 1988-89 seasons. Helms broke into the Show with two games with Cincinnati during the 1964 season, and 21 more games in 1965.  … [Read more...] about Tommy Helms Passes Away

The Astros traded right-hander Rafael Montero and $7.7MM to the Braves earlier this week for a player to be named later or cash. The Astros announced today that the PTBNL in that deal is minor league righty Patrick Halligan. Halligan, 25, was selected by the Royals in the 13th round of the draft back in 2021. He made the occasional start but mostly worked in relief. Over 2021 … [Read more...] about Astros Acquire Patrick Halligan As PTBNL In Rafael Montero Trade

Justin Verlander reportedly drew interest from several suitors over the offseason, but the Astros, his former team, were the only club known to have spoken with the three-time Cy Young winner before he signed a one-year, $15MM contract with the Giants. Yet, a new story from The Athletic’s Chandler Rome suggests a reunion between Verlander and Houston was never even close to a … [Read more...] about Verlander: Astros Were Not “In A Place To Make An Offer” This Offseason

The Astros lost Spencer Arrighetti to the injured list this week, as the righty suffered a broken thumb on a fluke injury when he was struck by a ball during batting practice. Manager Joe Espada said this afternoon that Arrighetti will avoid surgery but will remain in a cast for at least two weeks (relayed by Chandler Rome of The Athletic). He’ll be sent for imaging at that … [Read more...] about Latest On Astros’ Rotation Plans