MLB Trade Deadline: 3 Astros players likely to be traded by August 1

The 2024 season has been a strange one for the Houston Astros. Despite touting the best batting average in MLB, as well as the most hits in the AL, manager Joe Espada's team still sits 5.5 games back of the top spot in the AL West division.

However, the club is 8-2 over their past ten, and appear to have momentum on their side. Regardless of what happens, GM Dana Brown will have some decisions to make on or before the July 30 deadline. Today, we will be examining some of the players most likely to be shuffled.

3 Houston Astros players who could be moved at the deadline

3. Hunter Brown

Starting pitcher Hunter Brown has been on a role. Having most recently tossed five shutout innings against the Colorado Rockies has now just allowed one earned run over his past 25 innings of work. However, panning back to the wider picture reveals a more holistic truth.

"Hunter Brown, 85mph Hammer." - Pitching Ninja

Unfortunately for Houston, Brown has not pitched well for them. Now 5-5 with a 4.37 ERA, Brown's ERA in April and May was well over 6.00. The Astros' rotation was previously regarded as one of the top in MLB, which is why trading Hunter Brown to a more forgiving environment while he works on his mechanics could be a prescient move, especially if the return is the right value.

2. Jake Meyers

Fans in Houston became a lot more familiar with Jake Meyers in 2023 after the outfielder played in 112 games, hitting .227 with 10 home runs and 33 RBIs.

"JAKE MEYERS ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!???" - Houston Astros

This season, however, Meyers seems to have been squeezed out of the mix. Set to enter his arbitration period in 2025, Meyers is an athletic center fielder, but can likely be done without. Right now, beefing up on relief arms should be a top priority for the Astros, who continue to trail the Seattle Mariners in the AL West. Jake Meyers, 28, would be a good candidate to trade to a real contender with pitchers to spare.

1. Mauricio Dubon

Utility man Mauricio Dubon has more to boast about than being the second-ever Honduran-born MLB player. Over the past two seasons, Dubon has been incredibly versatile, and slotted himself in wherever the team needs him.

"First baseman Mauricio Dubon" - Michael Schwab

However, after signing a one-year, $3.5 million deal, the 29 year-old's power seems to have degraded. Moreover, lack of a need for him in the infield has pushed him back into the outfield. By shopping Mauricio Dubon, the Houston Astros could let the Honduran's record speak for itself, and cash in significantly on account of it.