One of the largest issues for the Houston Astros this season, outside of their left field hole, has been the starting rotation. Multiple starters have dealt with injuries, and uncertain timelines to return to the big league roster.

To resolve those worries, Dylan Sanders of Sports Illustrated proposed a trade that would land the Astros a new starter. But he predicted the cost for Arizona Diamondbacks starter Merrill Kelly would be promising outfielder Jacob Melton and prospect Michael Knorr.

"Shipping away Melton isn't ideal," Sanders writes. "But the comfort of adding an experience and reliable starter to this rotation would almost be priceless."

Melton didn't get much run for the Astros, but in his 11 games, he hit .241 with six RBIs and one triple through 29 at-bats. He also stole three bases. He was in the middle of going 2-2 before suffering a sprained ankle, which put his rookie season on hold.

But, the 24-year-old isn't the only piece going to the Diamondbacks as part of this deal, as Knorr, the 21st-ranked Astros prospect, would also be on his way to Arizona. Not a major piece, but another player being shipped out for Kelly.

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The Astros would be shipping out two young players, including their second-ranked prospect, for only half a season of Kelly. The 36-year-old is in the final year of his deal and will hit free agency after the 2025 season.

Houston would likely see Kelly leave in free agency as well, as they have to retain Framber Valdez and other stars across the roster. But Kelly would be a nice addition to an injured rotation.

In 18 starts this season, Kelly has a 3.55 ERA and a 7-3 record. He's struck out 103 batters in 104 innings pitched and has walked 29 on the year. Kelly is a solid starter and would be a nice depth piece behind Hunter Brown and Valdez.

This trade prediction from Sanders is a tough one. Losing a promising player in Melton would sting, but Kelly would be a nice piece for the rotation. It's a lot for half a season of Kelly, but the Astros could use more starters, and Kelly could be that difference maker.

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