Convenience Big Store: ⚾ AL West rival expected to make moves. How will Astros respond?

Leadoff

Astros owner Jim Crane may have to match Seattle's spending if he hopes to win the AL West in 2024.

Mariners pledge spending spree. Will Astros match AL West rival?

Houston's main division foe appears ready to make moves. Will Jim Crane respond?

The Rockets' Jabari Smith Jr. asking a question during media availability ahead of the 2024 NBA Finals.

Jabari Smith steals show as NBA Finals 'player correspondent'

Two members of the Rockets are serving as player correspondents for the NBA Finals.

Cheap Seats

Houston Astros GM Dana Brown speaks during a press conference announcing they agreed to a five-year contract extension for Jose Altuve at Minute Maid Park on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024, in Houston.

'In the market'

In the Cheap Seats, Chron sports writers answer burning questions from readers.

Will the Astros make a trade for a starting pitcher after losing Cristian Javier and José Urquidy for the season?

Chron sports editor Josh Criswell:

General manager Dana Brown discussed the Astros' latest injury losses this week on SportsTalk 790, and while he expressed confidence in the team's internal options, he didn't rule out the possibility of trading for a proven arm. Houston's pitching depth will be tested throughout the rest of the season, with the team announcing Wednesday that starters Cristian Javier and José Urquidy will undergo season-ending elbow surgeries.

"[If] we get an opportunity to acquire another arm, we will acquire the arm," Brown said. "But right now, I really feel good about our rotation. And as I feel good about this rotation and as we continue to play this season, we will have phone calls and we will probably talk to other teams. If there's something out there that makes sense for the Astros, we'll do it."