Astros predicted to trade for Marlins starter not named Sandy Alcantara

One of the top needs for the Houston Astros at the MLB trade deadline is starting pitching. While there are starters on their way back from the injured list, like Spencer Arrighetti, Christian Javier, and Luis Garcia, the Astros still need to consider adding one at the deadline.

A top option could come in the form of Miami Marlins starter Sandy Alcantara. However, with his rough start to the year and the rumors that the Marlins won't trade him until he's at peak value, the Astros are predicted to target a different Marlins starter.

According to an article from Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report, the Astros are predicted to target Marlins starter Edward Cabrera. Kelly writes, "Edward Cabrera of the Miami Marlins is an interesting change-of-scenery candidate with great stuff and multiple years of control left."

The need for starting pitching isn't just about 2025; the Astros need to consider the future when acquiring a starter at the 2025 deadline as well. With the possibility of Framber Valdez leaving in free agency, and other starters also being uncertain to return in 2026, a starter who will be around for more than just 2025 should be the Astros' priority.

Cabrera is a great choice to fill their need now and in the future. The righty from Miami has multiple years of control left, not becoming a free agent until after the 2028 season. Combined with his fairly young age, 27, Cabrera easily becomes one of the top options for the Astros at the trade deadline.

In 2025, Cabrera has a 3.81 ERA in 12 starts and has 1.2 WAR on the season, on pace to surpass his previous career high of 2.1 WAR. Through his 59 innings pitched, Cabrera has 63 strikeouts and 26 walks, the best strikeout-to-walk ratio in his career thus far.

A huge reason why this trade target makes a ton of sense, beyond the years of control, is the expected cost. Cabrera, while solid, hasn't pitched more than 99.2 innings in a season in his career. Combined with his career 4.23 ERA, the Marlins starter could be had for a reasonable price.

Based on what Jesus Luzardo has done for the Philadelphia Phillies, adding Cabrera, getting him out of Miami, could help him reach his potential. Kelly mentions Cabrera as a top change-of-scenery player, and if Luzardo's success in Philadelphia is any indication, Cabrera could be an incredible pitcher for the rotation for the next three and a half seasons.