Report: Astros, Athletics have mutual interest in Gray trade
The Houston Astros have a comfortable 11-game lead in the American League West, but questions surrounding the health of the rotation could put a long postseason run in jeopardy.
With Dallas Keuchel and Lance McCullers currently residing on the disabled list, the Astros are looking at outside help. Houston and the Oakland Athletics reportedly have mutual interest in working out a trade for right-hander Sonny Gray, with the Athletics said to be monitoring the Astros' minor-league system closely, according to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe.
Once considered one of the top young pitchers in the majors, Gray labored through injuries and inconsistencies last season to post a career-worst 5.69 ERA. He began this season on the disabled list with a lat injury, but rejoined the club in May.
Gray is 2-2 with a 4.44 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, and 53 strikeouts across 52 2/3 innings. He has been better of late, posting a 3.93 ERA with 22 strikeouts over his last three starts.
The 27-year-old is earning $3.575 million this season and is arbitration eligible for two more seasons before hitting free agency in 2020.