The Astros were on the verge of acquiring relief pitcher Zach Britton from the Orioles at the trade deadline last year, but the deal fell through because of medical questions surrounding the prospects involved. Perhaps the two teams are ready to try again.
Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reports that the Astros remain interested in Britton heading into this year’s trade deadline. There were rumblings a year ago that the failed deal was more about Houston’s refusal to part ways with top prospects and less about failed physicals, but it’s possible those negotiations gave the Astros and O’s a good starting point.
Britton made his 2018 debut earlier this month after he missed time with a torn Achilles, and he has allowed just one hit and no runs in four appearances. He also missed much of last season with an arm injury, but he has been one of the best relievers in baseball over the past several years when healthy.
Some believe Orioles owner Peter Angelos discouraged his front office from trading Britton and other top players last season, but it sounds like his stance has changed with his team toting baseball’s worst record this year.
