Riley Adams hits a tiebreaking solo homer in the seventh inning, lifting the Washington Nationals to a 2-1 win over the Houston Astros

Perhaps the greatest display of evidence showcasing the Houston Astros' offensive struggles came Monday in the opener of a three-game home interleague series against the Washington Nationals.

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

The Houston Astros activated outfielder Jacob Melton from the injured list before Monday's game against the Washington Nationals. First baseman Jon Singleton was designated for assignment in a corresponding active roster move.

The Minnesota Twins are set to be sellers at the trade deadline and the Houston Astros are interested in Willi Castro.

Although they were just swept at home against the A's, the Houston Astros sit atop the American League West with a 60-46 record. Reinforcements are coming.

After being swept at home by the Athletics, Houston opens its last series before the trade deadline against Washington.

The Rays are a game above .500 and sit 2.5 back of the AL’s final Wild Card spot. A terrible 6-15 showing in July has dropped them from expected buyers to a bubble team that looks likely to walk the line between adding and trading away veterans.

Houston's run prevention machine has broken down in July, putting undue pressure on a lineup that is ill-equipped to carry an entire team.

Dana Brown's options for a left-handed bat could include an infielder or outfielder with possible return of Jose Altuve to second base.

The right-hander has emerged as a capable front-end starter, and contenders are seemingly lining up to try to pursue him. While it seems unlikely that the Twins will deal him, the Astros would be a good fit and are no strangers to adding good starting pitchers at the deadline.