The Houston Astros, seeking to strengthen their lineup with more left-handed hitting, have shown interest in Baltimore Orioles center fielder Cedric Mullins as the trade deadline nears. Astros general manager Dana Brown has expressed a desire to add a lefty bat to their predominantly right-handed lineup, with reports indicating the team has
eyes on Orioles center fielder Cedric Mullins,
though it remains unclear whether formal discussions have been initiated between Houston and Baltimore.
Mullins’ Performance Highlights and Recent Decline
This season, 30-year-old Mullins has posted a .213 batting average, with a .295 on-base percentage and .413 slugging, totaling 12 home runs across 272 plate appearances. His weighted runs created plus (wRC+) sits nearly at league average with a 101 mark. Mullins excelled early in the year, recording a .983 OPS in his first 111 plate appearances before experiencing a severe downturn, dropping to a .161/.197/.329 slash line over his subsequent 158 at-bats. A hamstring injury sidelined him briefly at the end of May into June, but his struggles persisted upon return.
Statcast Data Reflects Mullins’ Challenges at the Plate
Despite maintaining decent walk and strikeout rates overall, Mullins’ underlying metrics tell a different story. His strikeout rate has risen to 25.7%, the highest in his eight MLB seasons, signaling difficulty making contact. His fly ball rate, at 55.4%, is also a career-high. While his isolated power (.202) remains among his best numbers, this shift toward power hitting appears to be undermining consistent offensive production.
Defensive Ability and Base-Stealing Contributions
Cedric Mullins’ value extends beyond his bat, as his average career wRC+ comes paired with significant base-stealing impact, having swiped 115 bases in 143 attempts between 2021 and 2024. However, in 2025, he has only successfully stolen 8 bases in 10 attempts. Defensive evaluations of his center field play are mixed, as metrics diverge sharply: Outs Above Average rates Mullins slightly positively at +1 over more than 550 innings, while Defensive Runs Saved rates him negatively at -15.
Possible Role and Fit within the Astros’ Roster
Given Jake Meyers’ reputation as a talented center fielder, Mullins would likely not replace him in that position. Instead, the left field slot, currently occupied by rookie Cam Smith who has performed solidly in his first major league season, may serve as Mullins’ landing spot if a trade occurs. Such an acquisition would likely prompt Jose Altuve to return full-time to second base after an ill-fated transition to left field, where his defensive performance has been subpar this season.
Financial Considerations and Contract Status
Mullins commands an $8.725 million salary for the season, roughly half of which has already been paid out. Should he be traded by the July 31 deadline, the acquiring team would be responsible for approximately $2.8 million covering the remainder of 2025. With Houston aiming to remain under the $241 million luxury tax threshold and currently estimated near $235.5 million, Mullins’ relatively modest salary fits within the club’s tight budget constraints for adding talent at the deadline.
Trade Interest Despite Recent Performance Concerns
While Mullins has struggled during the last two months, his affordable contract and past proven success make him an appealing target for several teams exploring deadline acquisitions. Clubs might prioritize his prior accomplishments over his recent slump, and a fresh environment could help revitalize his output.
Injuries and Timing May Influence Astros’ Deadline Moves
The Astros could wait until later in July before making major roster changes, as they seek greater clarity on the health status of key players like Yordan Alvarez and Chas McCormick. Alvarez has been sidelined nearly two months due to a hand injury later identified as a fracture. Manager Joe Espada informed reporters, including The Houston Chronicle’s Matt Kawahara, that Alvarez will begin facing live pitching at Houston’s minor league facility this week. McCormick is also set to join Alvarez as he recovers from an oblique strain
Orioles’ Outlook and Potential to Trade Mullins
After recent victories, the Baltimore Orioles hold a 36-47 record and have improved to 21-19 since Tony Mansolino replaced Brandon Hyde as manager. General manager Mike Elias offered a candid view on the team’s position, indicating they are preparing to be both buyers and sellers as July advances. This stance suggests that Cedric Mullins, who will become a free agent after this season, is a logical candidate to be moved if the Orioles choose to adjust their roster. Similar to last year’s deadline trade of Austin Hays, also a player in his final year of control, Mullins could be dealt to address other organizational needs.
Implications for Mullins and the Astros’ Future
Mullins’ recent struggles have diminished his trade value and may also affect his chances of securing a lucrative multi-year contract this upcoming offseason. For the Astros, adding Mullins could provide some much-needed left-handed offensive versatility without seriously burdening their payroll. Meanwhile, Houston’s potential trade activity depends on the health progress of Alvarez and McCormick, as well as any clarity gained about other lineup options before the July 31 deadline. If they secure Mullins, the move would reshape their outfield and return Altuve to a familiar defensive spot, possibly improving the team‘s overall balance in a crucial postseason push.