MLB trade rumors: Ken Rosenthal reveals four Astros players who could soon enter trade talks

The Houston Astros are entering an important stretch of the season, and trade talk is already starting to grow around the team. Injuries, inconsistent performances and a difficult run in the standings have created questions about what direction the front office could take before the MLB trade deadline. While Houston still has time to turn things around, some insiders believe the club may eventually consider selling if things do not improve soon.MLB insider Ken Rosenthal recently discussed the Astros’ situation during an appearance on FOX Sports: MLB. According to Rosenthal, Houston is still unlikely to move superstar Yordan Alvarez, but several other important names could become trade candidates if the team falls further behind in the playoff race. The comments quickly caught attention because the Astros have been one of baseball’s most competitive teams over the last several years, so even the idea of selling feels unusual for the organization right now.

Isaac Paredes, Josh Hader and Christian Walker emerge as possible Houston Astros trade candidates

Ken Rosenthal explained that Isaac Paredes may be the most realistic trade option if Houston decides to move players before the MLB trade deadline.“Isaac Paredes, he would be the most obvious if they are out of contention,” Rosenthal said through FOX Sports: MLB.Paredes could attract strong interest because of his bat and ability to play multiple infield positions. Teams looking for extra offense during a playoff push may view him as a valuable option.Rosenthal also mentioned Josh Hader and Christian Walker as players who could receive attention around the league. However, he also explained why trades involving those two names may not be simple.“Josh Hader and Christian Walker, they would be two others who would draw interest, but both have really high salaries. So that would limit the returns and Hader also has a full no-trade clause,” Rosenthal explained.Even with those challenges, teams needing bullpen help or veteran leadership could still contact Houston if the Astros decide to listen to offers.

Jeremy Pena could become an important Astros offseason decision

Rosenthal also shared another interesting name connected to Houston’s future plans. He believes Jeremy Pena could become a possible offseason trade candidate because of his contract situation.“And then this is the one to keep in mind, maybe not so much for the deadline but the offseason, Jeremy Pena,” Rosenthal added. “Jeremy Pena is an eligible free agent after next season, after 2027. So come this offseason, he will be in the same position Kyle Tucker was a few months back, and remember what they did with Kyle Tucker, they traded him.”The Astros are still trying to stay in the playoff race, which makes the situation more complicated. Houston remains near the bottom of the American League West standings, but the Wild Card race is still close enough for the team to remain hopeful.That is why the next few weeks could become very important for the organization. If the Astros start winning consistently, they may look to add talent instead of moving players. But if the struggles continue, trade conversations around the roster could become much louder before the deadline arrives.