3 Astros Prospects Who Should be Untouchable in Trade Talks

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It seems most contending teams are gearing up to add to their rosters at the trade deadline, and that's no different for the Astros.

Houston is holding onto a six game lead in the AL West, but have been linked to various starting pitchers from teams who have fallen out of the postseason hunt. Should the 'Stros pursue an arm on the market, they will most certainly have to give up some top prospects. But here are three they shouldn't move no matter the return.

1. Forrest Whitley - RHP

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Whitley isn't having the season the Astros were hoping for, but he still remains one of the most elite pitching prospects in the sport. Despite his disastrous 2019 season, Whitley still owns tremendous upside. Houston should not sell the right-hander at the deadline for a less than stellar asking price, and hope that he can rebound in 2020.

2. Yordan Alvarez - OF

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He's already in the big leagues, but still owns the prospect status. Since entering the majors, all Alvarez has done is slug. He's crushed 9 homers and driven in 29 RBI in just 23 games, all the while slashing .344/.422/.733. He should be as untouchable as anyone as the deadline approaches, because he's poised to be a mainstay in the Astros' outfield.

3. Seth Beer - OF/1B

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Seth Beer was the Astros' first-round pick in the 2018 draft, and he could be up in the majors as soon as the 2020 season. He's currently crushing in Double-A with 12 homers and 40 RBI in 50 games. The Astros don't have great depth at first base, so Beer could fight for the starting spot next year, and Houston should keep him around to see what he's capable of at the bigs.