Vote: How does Astros' trade for Justin Verlander affect AL playoff picture?
The Houston Astros are beefing up for a big playoff run.
On Thursday night, the Astros traded for veteranDetroit Tigersstarting pitcher Justin Verlander. Earlier in the day, the team also claimedLos Angeles Angels outfielder Cameron Maybin off waivers.
How do these moves impact the AL playoff picture? Will anyone be able to match up with Houston in October?
The Astros are hoping Verlander, 34, can boost the team's starting rotation: Houston's 4.15 starters ERA is higher than the Cleveland Indians' (3.87), Boston Red Sox's (4.01) and New York Yankees' (4.05).
In 28 starts this season, Verlander is 10-8 with a 3.82 ERA.
Maybin should give Houston's offense a speed jolt. The 30-year-old is tied with Jose Altuve for the AL lead in stolen bases with 29.
According to ESPN's Buster Olney, Verlander is likely to make his Astros debut next week.
--Isaac Chipps
