Chicago Cubs Rumors: Potential destination scenarios for Yu Darvish

Champs get richer?

What about the team that greatly benefitted from Darvish’s alleged pitch-tipping?

The Astros apparently met with Darvish Tuesday, and though not much has come out of that meeting, or any Twitter feedback (I mean, my Japanese isn’t great) by the man himself, it could be a logical home for Darvish.

After the Cubs experienced setback last season with their pitching, it certainly makes sense for Houston to take a cautious approach.

Their rotation right now consists of Dallas Keuchel, Justin Verlander, Lance McCullers Jr., Charlie Morton, Brad Peacock, and Collin McHugh. I mean, that’s not a bad starting five, let alone six, and you can insert the best pitcher on the market into the middle?

The Astros, who ended the season at a little over $140 million in payroll, and ranked 19th among teams according to Cots, could be set to shed some salary following 2018. Kuechel and Verlander are free agents, following 2018 and 2019, respectively.

As MLB.com’s Richard Justice further illustrates in his piece detailing the Astros as a potential fit for Darvish, Houston’s 2019 payroll is comparatively meager at a committed $56 million right now.

So, maybe the Astros look to bolster their staff for an elusive shot at a World Series repeat. Especially if Kuechel is not in the future plans. To form a dynamic trio of Kuechel, Verlander, and Darvish for2018 is a scary proposition for all 29 other teams.