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.

The Houston Astros have recently been connected to San Diego Padres starter Dylan Cease. The Padres are looking to both buy and sell ahead of July 31, and have set their sights on one of two positions while shopping Cease at the trade deadline.

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.