1.  I don't see how it would make any sense to sign someone that causes the loss of the Astros' 2d draft pick.  Because of the reduction in compensation picks (due to the CBA), the Astros 2d round pick will be about 20 spots higher than it was in 2012.  For that reason, I don't see any reason that the 2d pick wouldn't translate into a prospect as good or better than McCullers.

2.  I fully expect the Astros to sign another reliever.  It probably will depend on the best value (relative to price) that remains in the reliever group next month. Some names I would think about: Juan Cruz, Matt Lindstrom, Matt Capps, Jose Valverde.

3. I wouldn't be surprised if the Astros pick up an outfielder whose market value has dropped a lot. But, I don't think Luhnow wants someone who would block plate appearances by Maxwell or the two Martinez, unless they are too good to pass up. As you can see, there isn't much to choose from, once you remove Bourn because of the draft pick implications. Like Barzilla, I like the idea of a Scott Hairston signing, because he is a versatile back up who can move into the DH slot on occasion. If cheap enough, Ryan Sweeny or Fukudome might be interesting as a 4th outfielder in place of Barnes. I don't really like many of the other options.  And, truthfully, which of those outfield candidates (other than Bourn, again) is really likely to generate much value at the trading deadline.


Last Edited By: Clack Dec 30 12 12:30 PM. Edited 1 times.