The Houston Astros have reportedly acquired Justin Verlander from the New York Mets, according to an Associated Press source. The move is a major one for the Astros, who have been looking to bolster their starting rotation and add another ace to their staff.
Verlander, a former Cy Young Award winner, is one of the most accomplished pitchers in Major League Baseball. He has a career record of 183-114 with a 3.50 ERA and 2,634 strikeouts. He has been an All-Star eight times and was the American League MVP in 2011.
The Astros have been in need of another top-tier starter after losing ace Dallas Keuchel to free agency. Verlander will join a rotation that includes Gerrit Cole, Charlie Morton, and Lance McCullers Jr. The addition of Verlander should give the Astros one of the best rotations in baseball and make them a serious contender in the American League.
Verlander is expected to make his Astros debut on Tuesday against the Seattle Mariners. He was acquired from the Mets in exchange for three minor league prospects, including pitcher Franklin Perez.
The move is a big one for the Astros, who are looking to make a deep playoff run this season. With Verlander now in the fold, the Astros have a legitimate chance to make it to the World Series. It will be interesting to see how Verlander performs in his new home and if he can help the Astros reach their ultimate goal.
