There was a time this season, most recently the middle of June, when I thought the Astros would sell by the trade deadline. Or, at least, the likelihood was higher than being a buyer or standing pat. I mean, Alex Bregman will enter free agency this winter and pitchers are always in demand. That thinking to be fair was entirely due to that brutal start. But thanks to a 28-16 record since June 1 and the mediocrity known as the AL West, they will most certainly be buyers to help bolster their odds of qualifying for the postseason for the eighth consecutive year.
A Payroll Refresher As The Trade Deadline Draws Near
![](https://cdn.chatsports.com/cache/17/e8/17e85ff7fc55062bdb669308247f7853-original.jpg)