Astros plan to buy at trade deadline; Pirates open to trading draft pick

With the MLB trade deadline approaching on July 11-12, the Houston Astros are preparing to be buyers, seeking left-handed batting and bullpen assistance despite their current 36-42 record. They've improved recently, going 16-11 over the last 27 games and are close to the AL West and wild-card spots. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Pirates are willing to trade their Competitive Balance draft pick, currently No. 34 overall, along with prospects, aiming to strengthen their bullpen, which has struggled this season. The Pirates have until the draft begins to finalize any trades involving their draft pick.

• 3:37 PMCBS MLB — MLB rumors: Astros' (surprising?) trade deadline plans, why the Pirates could bring some drama to the draft