Astros acquire Blue Jays pitcher Yusei Kikuchi after injuries devastate starting rotation

Astros pitcher Jake Bloss is the main player included in the package going to Toronto.

The Houston Astros have secured much-needed help for their rotation by acquiring left-hander Yusei Kikuchi from the Toronto Blue Jays. CBS Sports insider Jim Bowden reported Monday that the trade involves a package including right-hander Jake Bloss. In addition, super utility player Joey Loperfido and infielder Will Wagner are heading to Toronto in the 3-for-1 deal, according to Sportsnet.

Kikuchi, 33, has a 4.75 ERA in 22 starts this season, despite some standout performances. Last season, he recorded a 3.86 ERA over 167 2/3 innings. While Minute Maid Park can be challenging for a fly ball-prone lefty, Kikuchi’s ability to miss bats is crucial, especially in October.

Despite their recent improvement, Astros starters rank 18th in ERA and 23rd in WAR this season. Justin Verlander has been out since mid-June with a neck issue, and both Cristian Javier and José Urquidy underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this year. Luis Garcia is currently rehabbing from his own Tommy John surgery.

Once the trade is finalized, Yusei Kikuchi will join Framber Valdez, Hunter Brown, and Ronel Blanco in Houston’s rotation. Spencer Arrighetti is holding the No. 5 spot for Verlander’s return. The Astros had shown interest in Detroit Tigers righty Jack Flaherty, but the price for Kikuchi was more favorable.

Jake Bloss, 23, was a third-round pick last season. Injuries forced him into the majors, where he’s given up nine runs in 11 2/3 innings. The Blue Jays, who are out of playoff contention, can afford to send Bloss back to the minors to continue his development.

Joey Loperfido, 25, has a batting line of .236/.299/.359 in 38 MLB games this season, his first in the big leagues. He has a .933 OPS in Triple-A and has played multiple positions, including first base, second base, and center field. Will Wagner has an .853 OPS in Triple-A. Baseball America ranked Bloss, Loperfido, and Wagner among Houston’s top 20 prospects in their midseason update.

The Astros, who have surged to a 41-25 record since May 11, the best in baseball, are tied with the Seattle Mariners atop the AL West. Seattle has bolstered its roster by adding Randy Arozarena, Justin Turner, and Yimi García as part of the trade deadline competition.