KIKUCHI HEADS TO HOUSTON
The Houston Astros acquired pitcher Yusei Kikuchi from the Toronto Blue Jays for pitcher Jake Bloss, outfielder/first baseman Joey Loperfido and infielder Will Wagner.
What does it give the Houston Astros
Houston is pushing for another division title in the American League West, but their starting rotation has been a weakness at times this season. Kikuchi immediately addresses that need. The veteran left-hander settled in nicely over his three years in Toronto, proving to be a durable and effective strikeout pitcher. However, he joins the Astros with a 4.75 earned-run average after several poor starts prior to this trade. Expectations will also be high, as Houston gave up a lot to acquire Kikuchi.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays are selling off veteran players, and they got a nice haul for Kikuchi. Bloss and Loperfido are prospects who have already made their MLB debuts. While they have yet to impress in MLB, both have little left to prove in the minors. Especially Bloss, with his 1.64 ERA and minuscule 0.79 WHIP in 66 minor-league innings this season. Wagner continues to display impressive contact-hitting and on-base skills. All three prospects make this deal an easy win for Toronto.
Fantasy impact
Kikuchi gets a small boost from this trade, as he is now more likely to pick up wins with the Astros (and face lesser opponents from the AL West more regularly). The move also benefits the Blue Jays' newly-acquired prospects, who now get a better path to MLB playing time. Bloss and Loperfido have shown that the transition may take a little time, but these are prospects worth watching in fantasy leagues when they get that opportunity. Ditto Wagner, who is a bit further behind.
