The Houston Astros’ starting rotation is in danger of being the club’s weakness entering 2026. With Framber Valdez likely on his way out the door in free agency, Houston’s ace, Hunter Brown, sits atop the Astros’ rotation in grim isolation. Despite Brown’s brilliance, he can’t carry the rotation alone. The Astros need to bring in another proven starter this winter, which could surprisingly lead them to a trade for the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Mitch Keller.
It might sound crazy for Houston to dip into the well of the lowly Pirates for pitching reinforcements, but Keller’s talent is notable, with a 2023 All-Star selection to show for it.