Astros: Three premium trade chips this offseason

Minor league prospects are the lifeblood of a major league organization. But there are times to “cash in” those chips for proven major league talent.

Looking ahead, the Astros are approaching a crossroads. Not only does the front office have to plan for the 2019 season, their course of action this winter will impact future seasons. Based on the available assets on hand, Houston is likely a buyer this offseason.

General manager Jeff Luhnow has proved in the past that he isn’t afraid to trade away prospects to address the major league roster. His trade a few offseason ago for Evan Gattis and James Hoyt stands out along with the Carlos Gomez deal. Mike Fiers was the saving grace of that deal. In…