The Astros are again talking to the Cardinals about a Nolan Arenado trade, but the two sides aren't close to a deal.

San Diego Padres right-hander Dylan Cease is "at the top" of the Houston Astros' wish list heading into Thursday's trade deadline, Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome reported Tuesday for The Athletic.

The Astros look to halt a season-long losing streak of five games as the series against the Nationals continues.

The Astros have been crushed by injuries, and as they pursue another pitcher at the trade deadline, they're eying Padres starter Dylan Cease.

Houston ace Framber Valdez expresses frustration over defensive positioning during the Astros' loss to the Washington Nationals.

Houston Astros star Jeremy Pena is closing in on a return to the major league roster, as he'll begin a rehab assignment on Tuesday with Triple-A Sugar Land. He's been out with a fracture in his ribs.

Part of why Houston struggled against the Athletics is health, as shortstop Jeremy Peña (rib) and third baseman Isaac Paredes (hamstring) are both on the 10-day IL. Peña leads the team with a .322 batting average, which also ranks third in baseball. Meanwhile, Paredes tops the squad with 19 homers.