Astros add needed pitching help by acquiring Yusei Kikuchi from Blue Jays

The Houston Astros added a needed piece for their starting rotation on Monday.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Astros have acquired Blue Jays starter Yusei Kikuchi. The Astros are reportedly sending pitching prospect Jake Bloss back to Toronto.

The Astros had been in the market for another starting pitcher, although they were reportedly interested in rental options due to the status of their farm system. Kikuchi and Tigers starter Jack Flaherty had been mentioned as possible targets. Bob Nightengale from USA Today reported that the Astros had spoken to the Tigers regarding a deal for Flaherty but pivoted to Kikuchi when a trade was unable to come together.

Kikuchi has pitched better than his stat line would indicate. He has posted a 4.75 ERA and a 1.340 WHIP over his 115.2 innings, striking out 130 batters with 30 walks. However, Kikuchi has a bloated .344 batting average against on balls in play leading to those struggles. The Astros are counting on Kikuchi to perform closer to his 3.64 FIP down the stretch.

In exchange, the Blue Jays receive an intriguing prospect in Bloss. Rated as the Astros' ninth-best prospect by MLB.com, Bloss is lauded for his ability to create extension from a low release point and his upper 90s fastball. He has improved his curve since being drafted and also throws a slider and changeup.

Commanding his arsenal has been a concern, both in and out of the zone. Bloss had made three starts for the Astros, allowing nine runs on 16 hits, including five homers, and three walks over 11.2 innings, striking out 11.

This could be a trade that haunts the Astros in the future. If Bloss can harness his stuff, he could be a solid middle of the rotation arm for years to come in Toronto. However, it is also a trade the Astros needed to make as they look to return to the postseason.