The Houston Astros are navigating a tricky landscape as they look to move All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes. While a three-way trade with the Boston Red Sox remains a possibility, identifying other interested teams has proven challenging.
Paredes has joined the Astros at spring training, and while the team has a strategy in place, GM Dana Brown confirmed ongoing trade discussions as Opening Day approaches.
A new opportunity might be on the horizon due to recent injuries in Baltimore. The Orioles have been hit with setbacks as second baseman Jackson Holliday and third baseman Jordan Westburg are sidelined.
Holliday is on the mend from hand surgery and should return shortly after Opening Day. Westburg, meanwhile, is dealing with a partially torn UCL and is hoping PCP injections will keep him off the long-term injured list.
Despite these injuries, the Orioles have depth to cover. Blaze Alexander and Jeremiah Jackson are expected to fill in at second base, while Coby Mayo will have a shot at third base to start the season.
Should Mayo struggle or Westburg require surgery, the Astros might find an opening to trade Paredes and address their need for a left-handed hitting outfielder.
Houston would need to monitor the Orioles' situation closely, but Paredes could be a perfect fit if Baltimore seeks an upgrade. The trade talks might also allow the Astros to pursue the left-handed outfielder they've been eyeing all offseason. Orioles' outfielder Colton Cowser, who hasn't secured a starting role yet, could be a key piece in such a deal.
If Baltimore feels the urgency to upgrade at third base with Paredes, the Astros might target Cowser. At 25, his left-handed bat could be a valuable addition in right field for Houston, providing insurance if they move Jake Meyers.
A trade involving Cowser could represent the best option for the Astros, though Baltimore's current depth reminds us of the risks Houston took by delaying their offseason moves.