The Houston Astros have had a tough start to the 2024 season, leading to speculation about a potential deadline selloff. One player often mentioned in trade talks is right-handed pitcher Justin Verlander. However, his full no-trade clause and love for Houston make a trade seem unlikely. Last summer, Verlander waived his no-trade clause to join the Astros, showing his commitment to the team. Despite the Astros’ struggles this season, Verlander may prioritize competing and could consider a trade to a contender if the team remains out of contention by July.

If #Astros continue to struggle, will Verlander be on the trade block this summer?https://t.co/eAv1DiRSp0 pic.twitter.com/0hz0ChqY6p

— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) May 7, 2024

Verlander’s contract includes a conditional player option for 2025, dependent on him pitching 140 innings in 2024. While he started the season on the injured list, he has time to reach this milestone. The option clause includes protection against significant arm injuries, providing some reassurance to potential trade partners. Additionally, the Mets are covering a significant portion of Verlander’s salary for this year, making him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their pitching rotation.

Although Verlander’s performance metrics this season don’t fully support his impressive ERA, his track record of success makes him a desirable asset. Ultimately, the Astros’ performance, Verlander’s health and performance, and the team’s long-term plans will determine whether he is traded before the deadline. If the Astros continue to struggle, they may have tough decisions to make regarding their roster, potentially involving Verlander and other key players like Alex Bregman.