Astros 'best match' at trade deadline is .856 OPS Rockies outfielder

The Houston Astros have the same exact need as they did a year ago at the MLB trade deadline. For the second year in a row, they need a left-handed hitter.

Last season, Dana Brown added Jesus Sanchez from the Miami Marlins, and that didn't work out as intended, as he struggled and the Astros went on to miss the postseason. Now, the need is apparent once more, though the options are better this year.

ESPN's Jeff Passan identified the Astros' "Best match" at this year's trade deadline among all left-handed hitters, falling on .856 OPS, Colorado Rockies outfielder Jake McCarthy as their best option this summer.

Jake McCarthy is Astros 'Best match' at trade deadline

"Best match: Jake McCarthy, OF, Colorado," Passan writes. "Among him, Moniak, rookie Cole Carrigg, and Troy Johnston - not to mention injured center fielder Brenton Doyle and top prospect Charlie Condon - the Rocies have room to move at least one bat."

Since the Rockies are surely going to sell this summer, and they have a bountiful outfield to trade from, the Astros are a natural landing spot for one of their outfielders.

While Mickey Moniak is one name to watch out for, McCarthy is the outfielder Passan named as the Astros "Best match" this summer.

The six-year MLB veteran has an .856 OPS this season with a .302 batting average, a 121 OPS+, and 0.9 bWAR in 79 games with 80 hits, 17 doubles, six triples, and nine homers.

MORE: Astros showing ‘strong interest’ in Rockies’ Mickey Moniak and Jake McCarthy

The 28-year-old is under control through the 2028 season, so he might cost a little bit more than a typical rental outfielder. But, with the left-handed hitting outfield need for the Astros so apparent, spending a bit to add McCarthy makes sense.

He'd instantly provide quality offense for the Astros, and while his .943 OPS at home is significantly greater than his .756 OPS away from Coors Field, getting McCarthy would be worth it even at his .756 OPS level.

Houston desperately needs to add outfield help this summer, and McCarthy is a natural option for the club to target. He's their "Best match" this summer, according to Passan, and would be exactly what they need to compete in the tight AL West and AL Wild Card.

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