The Houston Astros had a disappointing year this season, losing the division for the first time in a while, and not even making the Wild Card. On top of that, they’re predicted to lose their ace in Framber Valdez this offseason.

The first thing they need to do this offseason is replace Valdez. Fansided’s Christopher Kline believes two-time Cy Young and five-time All-Star Jacob deGrom could be the replacement ace they need.

“The Houston Astros probably balk at deGrom’s contract in the end, and Texas almost certainly wants to avoid trading him in-state (and in the division). That said, there’s a need here. Framber Valdez is a free agent. The top of Houston’s rotation is solid enough with Hunter Brown’s star emergence, but depth is an issue. deGrom can settle Houston at a position of weakness and give Joe Espada more firepower to support what is still, on paper, as talented and seasoned an offensive unit as there is in MLB. deGrom probably wouldn’t mind keeping state income tax out of the equation, either,” Kline wrote.

This past season, deGrom posted a 12-8 record, a 2.97 ERA, 185 Ks, and a 0.921 WHIP over 172 innings pitched. He would be a great ace or No. 2 behind Hunter Brown.

Speaking of Brown, having deGrom and Brown would make for one of the best 1-2 punches in baseball. Also, deGrom can mentor the Cy Young candidate for a while, as he himself won the award twice.

Hopefully, the Astros figure out a way to make this trade and get to work.