The Houston Astros have made a significant roster move, trading infielder Grae Kessinger to acquire young pitching prospect Matthew Linskey. This decision comes as Kessinger was designated for assignment on December 23, paving the way for the signing of first baseman Christian Walker to a lucrative three-year, $60 million contract.
Matthew Linskey, a promising 22-year-old right-handed pitcher, stands at 6-foot-7 and has shown impressive potential in the minors. He was drafted in the 16th round by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2023 and has posted a 2.75 ERA over 39⅓ innings, even reaching the High-A level in his first professional season.
Grae Kessinger, a utility infielder who has spent parts of the last two seasons with the Astros, struggled offensively, achieving a batting average of just .131 in 49 games. The Astros selected Kessinger in the second round of the 2019 draft, and he is known for being the grandson of the notable six-time All-Star shortstop, Don Kessinger. The trade was first reported by The Athletic.
