The Houston Astros have made a significant move to strengthen their infield for the stretch run, acquiring Gold Glove-winning infielder Ramón Urías from the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday, July 30. In return, the Orioles will receive minor league pitcher Twine Palmer, adding another arm to their farm system.
The trade comes as the Astros, who currently lead the American League West, look to address a critical need at third base following a significant injury to All-Star Isaac Paredes. Paredes has been sidelined since July 19 with a hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out for an extended period, making the acquisition of a proven infielder a top priority for the club.
Urías, 31, brings a stellar defensive reputation to Houston. His primary calling card is his glove work, which earned him the AL Gold Glove Award at third base in 2022. That season, he led all American League third basemen with 14 Defensive Runs Saved. His versatility is also a key asset, as he has experience playing second base and shortstop in addition to his primary position at the hot corner.
Offensively, the right-handed hitting Urías has been a consistent contributor. In 77 games with the Orioles this season, he has posted a .248 batting average with eight home runs, 34 RBIs, and a .688 OPS, according to statistics from ESPN. Over his six-year major league career, all with Baltimore, he holds a .259 batting average with 47 home runs and 205 RBIs. While not a power-hitter, he is known for providing steady production and can get hot for stretches at the plate.
This move is not merely a short-term rental for the Astros. Urías is under a one-year, $3.15 million contract for the 2025 season and remains under team control through arbitration until he becomes a free agent in 2027, as detailed by Spotrac. This gives Houston a cost-effective and reliable infield option for the foreseeable future.
From the Orioles’ perspective, the trade clears a path for their abundance of young infield talent. With players like Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday, and Jordan Westburg establishing themselves as the future of the franchise, playing time for a veteran like Urías was becoming increasingly competitive. The move allows Baltimore to continue its youth movement while acquiring a pitching prospect in Twine Palmer.
The acquisition, first reported by Jon Heyman of The New York Post and confirmed by MLB Trade Rumors, signals the Astros’ clear intent to make another deep postseason run. By adding a sure-handed defender and a capable bat, they have effectively plugged a major hole created by injury, ensuring their infield remains a source of strength as they aim for another championship.
