4 relief pitchers to watch as potential Houston Astros trade targets

As the 2024 MLB season continues, the Houston Astros are struggling to stay within striking distance in the Wild Card race. They are still alive, but that could change depending on how the next month goes.

Before the trade deal at the end of July, the Astros will have to make a decision. Do they think they can compete with a shot or two? Or should they wait until the offseason to try to build a contender for next season?

There are a few major areas of need for Houston. Among those needs are first base, starting pitchers and relief pitchers.

Injuries plagued the Astros throughout the season. Without the injury issues, they wouldn’t have the need to acquire talent that they currently have.

If Houston decides to be aggressive before the trade deadline, they could consider pursuing numerous targets. For now, let’s focus on potential relievers they could pursue.

Athleticism suggested four potential names for the Astros.

Kyle Finnegan, Washington Nationals

First on the list is Kyle Finnegan, a 32-year-old right-hander. He played his entire career with the Nationals and could be available for a trade before the deadline.

In 30 games this season, Finnegan has swallowed 30.1 innings. He compiled a 1.78 ERA to go along with 20 saves. Houston would get a legitimate talent closer who still has some control over his contract.

Finnegan seems to check all the boxes for what the Astros are looking for and could be the best potential reliever trade target for the team.

Michael Kopech, Chicago Sox

Another name that has been a hot topic in trade deadline speculation is Kopech. He’s a 28-year-old right-handed reliever who didn’t have a stellar season in 2024, but has the talent to be an impact player.

In 2024, Kopech posted a 4.91 ERA to go along with five saves and four blown saves. He appeared in 29 matches.

Kopech also has some control when it comes to his contract, which would be valuable to the Astros. However, it has struggled and would be a somewhat risky acquisition.

Lucas Erceg, Oakland Athletics

Next, the Athletics could be an interesting team to work with in potential trade talks. Mason Miller would obviously be the flashiest trade target, but Lucas Erceg could also make sense for Houston.

Erceg also has the potential to be a long-term recovery. He is 29 years old and would be a much cheaper option to trade than Miller.

So far in 2024, he has performed well in his 24 matches played. He recorded a 3.33 ERA and a 1.11 WHIP. Erceg wouldn’t ruin the Astros’ acquisition and could be a major upgrade to the bullpen.

Tanner Scott, Miami Marlins

Finally, another potential star closer needs to be added to this list. Tanner Scott would be a very interesting target for Houston, even if his contract expires at the end of the 2024 season.

Scott could be a candidate to re-sign if the Astros trade for him. This is certainly a talented arm that could be an important addition for a late-inning role.

He has posted a 1.93 ERA so far this season in 27 games, along with eight saves and a 5-5 record. Many teams are linked to Scott, but Houston should check out what it would take. The upside with Scott if a new deal can be reached in free agency would be huge.