HOUSTON, TX – July 30, 2025 – As the clock ticked closer to Thursday’s MLB Trade Deadline, the Houston Astros moved to address a pressing need in their injury-riddled infield, acquiring Gold Glove-winning infielder Ramón Urías from the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday. In exchange, the Orioles received minor league right-handed pitcher Twine Palmer.
The move comes at a critical time for the Astros, who are reeling from a string of significant injuries, most notably the prolonged absence of All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes, who is expected to miss at least a month, possibly two, with a hamstring strain. Urías, a 31-year-old known for his defensive prowess, provides an immediate and experienced plug-and-play solution at the hot corner.
Urías, who won the American League Gold Glove at third base in 2022, has primarily played third base for the Orioles this season, appearing in 68 games there. While batting .248 with eight home runs and 34 RBIs in 77 games, his primary value to Houston lies in his reliable glove and versatility across the infield. He is also under team control through the 2026 season, offering more than just a rental solution.
Heading to Baltimore is Twine Palmer, a 20-year-old right-hander drafted by the Astros in the 19th round in 2024. Palmer has shown promise in Single-A Fayetteville, boasting a 2.13 ERA with 44 strikeouts over 42 1/3 innings in 13 appearances this season.
The trade for Urías signifies the Astros’ commitment to bolstering their roster amidst their injury woes, particularly in the infield. With Paredes out for an extended period, and other key players like Yordan Alvarez and Jeremy Peña also on the injured list, Urías offers a veteran presence and defensive stability that could prove invaluable as the Astros push through the dog days of summer and eye a postseason berth. The deal ensures the Astros have a capable defender at third base, allowing them to better weather their injury storm as the competitive landscape intensifies.