"I don't think it was the overwhelming give that people made it out to be" - MLB insider backs Astros acquisition of Yusei Kikuchi
The Houston Astros needed to add to their starting rotation and did so by acquiring Yusei Kikuchi from the Toronto Blue Jays. However, they had to give up three prospects in order to do so.
Houston parted ways with right-hander Jake Bloss, outfielder Joey Loperfido, and infielder Will Wagner. That seemed to be a big ask, given Kikuchi was not a huge name at the deadline.
However, considering their need for a dependable starter, MLB Network's Jon Heyman believes it was a good deal for Houston. He joined the crew over at MLB Central to discuss how he viewed the trade.
"Houston saw something in him. As a rival GM told me, 'He's an analytics dream.' The guy throws up to 98 MPH, big strikeout rate. Houston does a great job with pitchers," said Heyman.
While he was not turning heads earlier in the season, Houston saw something they could work with. They have a great track record of getting the most out of their pitching staff, and that should be no different here.
"It was a significant give, but I don't think it was the overwhelming give that people made it out to be when [Yusei] Kikuchi is an impact guy for Houston," said Heyman.
There is no denying that Houston gave up a considerable amount, but for what Kikuchi could be, it should be worth it. He could be the difference between winning the AL West again or missing the postseason entirely.
Yusei Kikuchi has looked great with the Astros
Since the trade, Yusei Kikuchi has made two starts for the Astros. During these starts, he has looked great [putting together some impressive strikeout totals.
He made a start against the Tampa Bay Rays on August 2 for his debut with his new club. He went 5.1 innings, giving up two runs while striking out 11 batters in a no-decision win.
During his second star, Kikuchi would get the win. He went 5.1 innings against the Texas Rangers, giving up two runs while striking out eight batters in the 6-4 victory.
Kikuchi has looked shaped in his last two starts, and Houston will depend on him to continue this momentum. After a rocky start to the season, the Astros have put the pieces back together. They now sit atop the American League West, but have the Seattle Mariners right on their heels.