Brian McTaggart, Astros beat reporter for MLB.com, joins The Matt Thomas Show after the Astros defeated the Miami Marlins 9-1 on Wednesday at Minute Maid Park.
Framber Valdez allowed one run on six hits and a walk while striking out 10 over seven innings. The Astros have a chance to complete a series sweep over the Marlins on Thursday with Jake Bloss starting on the mound.
As the MLB trade deadline approaches on July 30, the Astros have an opportunity to fill some gaps on the roster, especially at first base and the pitching rotation. "They want to add a bat," but the Astros "can't continue giving away their top prospects year after year," McTaggart said. "In a way there are some untouchables" within the organization, so "they're going to have to find another way to get a deal done."
During the conversation, news breaks that Jose Altuve will miss the All-Star Game. Altuve would "rather just stay home and heal up for the second half" of the season.
McTaggart also discusses the latest updates on Justin Verlander, Lance McCullers Jr. and more.