ASTROS OPT FOR OSUNA TO CLOSE
The Houston Astros acquired pitcher Roberto Osuna from the Toronto Blue Jays for pitchers Ken Giles, David Paulino and Hector Perez.
What does it give the Houston Astros
This trade is a high-risk, high-reward move but if any team can afford to do so, it is the defending World Series champions. Osuna is a stud closer but off-field issues are still part of the picture here. Osuna will be activated from the suspended list later this week and should take over from Hector Rondon as Houston's new closer. Osuna is still only 23 years old, so this could wind up being a steal for the Astros (provided Osuna can stay out of more trouble).
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
For the Blue Jays, this is as good a trade as they could have hoped for in exchange for a player they no longer wanted (though not for his on-field performance). In Giles, the Jays add a quality bullpen arm who may replace Osuna as the team's closer. Giles is still only 27 and may turn things around in Toronto, after struggling somewhat this season in Houston. Paulino is a high-upside arm who has struggled to produce results this season. The 24-year-old Paulino could shine with Toronto. Meanwhile, Perez also displays a big arm but might be more of a reliever in MLB due to a propensity for walks.
Fantasy impact
Osuna must feel like he went from the cellar to the penthouse following this trade, as he now is likely to step in as closer for the defending champs. His fantasy stock has skyrocketed as a result. Giles, while no longer in a great situation as a closer candidate in Houston, might have even more value if he can nail down the ninth-inning role with Toronto. His stock is also rising rapidly. Paulino may have already be drafted in some keeper leagues, but should be snapped up quickly if still available. As for Perez, he is another candidate to be picked up right away in keeper formats. However, he does not have as much upside as a starting pitcher as Paulino.
