The Houston Astros know they need starting pitching to push forward in their pursuit of the American League West, and they have their eyes set on Dylan Cease.

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.

Right-hander Michael King (4-2, 2.59 ERA) hasn’t pitched since May 18 due to a shoulder injury. On top of that, fellow right-hander Dylan Cease (3-10, 4.79 ERA) is having one of the worst seasons of his career.