The Astros and pitcher Brett Myers are close to a long-term contract extension.
Having traded Roy Oswalt to the Phillies, Houston wants to secure a piece for their starting rotation.
"I can't commit to it, but (a deal) is real close" to being completed," general manager Ed Wade said. "It's a little bit beyond dotting the I's and crossing the T's, but not far beyond that."
The deal likely will be a two-year deal with an option for a third.
Astros, Myers Close To Extension