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The Houston Astros have been the subject of much discussion this offseason, with many outside observers, including The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, suggesting that the team faces an infield logjam and should explore trading Isaac Paredes to achieve a more balanced roster. The notion was questionable from the start, and the latest trade proposal featuring Masataka Yoshida only underscores how out of touch some of these ideas are with Houston’s present situation.

FanSided’s Chris Landers proposed, in a recent article, that the Astros might trade Paredes to the Boston Red Sox in return for Yoshida, along with pitching prospect Kyson Witherspoon. At first glance, it appears to be a quintessential “change of scenery” transaction. In truth, it would lead to more complications than it resolves for Houston.

Jeremy Peña’s Injury Shows Why Paredes Is Untouchable

The primary factor that undermines this trade proposal is the timing involved. The Astros found themselves facing concerns regarding their roster depth after shortstop Jeremy Peña fractured his finger while gearing up to represent the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic.

Peña’s injury instantly shifted the dynamics of Houston’s roster setup. Prior to the injury, experts were debating whether the Astros had too many infielders and should consider trading one to create some room. Injuries are precisely the reason teams prioritize building depth from the outset.

Peña has established himself as one of Houston’s most dependable players in recent years. His absence, even for a short stretch, compels the Astros to reevaluate their infield options and adaptability.

Paredes steps into a pivotal role here.

Paredes provides Houston with the flexibility to rearrange their lineup on the field in the event that Peña is sidelined. He’s capable of manning third base, giving flexibility for teammates to shift around based on the matchup. What once appeared to be a “logjam” has now transformed into a safety net.

Making a trade for that insurance just days before Opening Day could prove to be a gamble for any team in contention.

Masataka Yoshida Doesn’t Solve Houston’s Problem

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Even if the Astros felt at ease parting with Paredes, Yoshida still wouldn’t fulfill the team’s genuine requirements.

Yoshida showcases impressive hitting skills, yet his overall worth is predominantly derived from his offensive prowess. Defensive shortcomings have swiftly relegated him to a role primarily focused on designated hitting in Boston. This presents a significant challenge for Houston, which is already dealing with one of the most secure designated hitter scenarios in the league, thanks to Yordan Alvarez.

Bringing Yoshida into the mix would compel the Astros to manage their lineup with even greater intensity. Houston has been strategically rotating players through the designated hitter spot to keep its hitters fresh throughout the long season. Adding another player focused primarily on hitting would disrupt that equilibrium rather than enhance it.

Additionally, Yoshida has a substantial financial commitment remaining over the next two seasons. The Astros would be shelling out extra cash to bring in a player who doesn’t address a specific gap in their lineup.

For teams vying for the championship, depth is crucial.

The Astros have established themselves through astute roster management and a forward-looking approach. One of the key factors in their success has been the ability to sustain depth throughout the roster, ensuring that injuries don’t sidetrack their season.

The Peña situation serves as a prime example of the significance of that philosophy.

Just a week back, discussions were swirling around Houston’s surplus of infielders. At this point, that depth stands out as one of the team’s most significant assets.

That’s precisely why moving Isaac Paredes at this moment—particularly for a player who fails to meet Houston’s requirements—should be entirely off the table.

Alvin Garcia Born in Puerto Rico, Alvin Garcia is a sports writer for Heavy.com who focuses on MLB. His work has appeared on FanSided, LWOS, NewsBreak, Athlon Sports, and Yardbarker, covering mostly baseball. More about Alvin Garcia