Angels trade rumors: Hector Santiago drawing interest

Several teams have expressed interest in Angels starter Hector Santiago, according to FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal.

Houston was among the clubs scouting Santiago during his start Saturday against the Red Sox, Rosenthal adds. It might take a lot to acquire Santiago, since he is still under club control through next season.

There aren’t many starting pitchers expected to be available before the trade deadline, which could make Santiago even more valuable. Santiago is arbitration eligible for another season and is making $5 million this year.

Santiago, 28, hasn’t had much success this season, pitching to a 4.93 ERA and 5.34 FIP over 91.1 innings. Over 17 starts, he’s walked 40 and allowed 17 home runs, so unless a team is willing to overpay, Santiago is unlikely to be moved.

Although the Astros seem to be interested in upgrading their starting rotation, there doesn’t appear to be a clear need to do so. Houston’s starting pitchers have posted a 4.33 ERA, which ranks sixth in the American League.

Houston sits eight and a half games behind the Rangers in the American League West, but the club is only a half a game behind the Red Sox and Royals in the Wild Card standings entering playing Sunday.

Jake Odorizzi, Drew Pomeranz, Matt Moore and Chris Archer are among the starting pitchers expected to be available ahead of the deadline.

While Santiago hasn’t posted dominant numbers this season, he has proven to be effective in the past. Over two seasons with the White Sox, Santiago pitched to a 3.49 ERA and has posted a 3.65 ERA since joining the Angels.

Los Angeles could look to move Santiago this winter or next summer before he becomes a free agent. For teams seeking starting upgrades, there might be better options to consider.