Justin Verlander deal is a win-win for Astros and Tigers

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Trade:? Houston Astros acquired RHP Justin Verlander from Detroit Tigers for LHP Franklin Perez, OF Daz Cameron and C Jake Rogers

Astros grade: A

But Verlander is still a very good pitcher. He's 10-8 with a 3.82 ERA on a bad team with 176 strikeouts in 172 innings. He's also been terrific in the second half, with a 2.41 ERA over 10 starts, ranking third in the AL in ERA, second in WHIP, second in batting average allowed and fifth in K's per nine. So he's been close to vintage Verlander of late, and he's a guy with postseason success in his career. If there's one concern, it's that he has a 2.76 ERA in pitcher-friendly Detroit and a 4.78 ERA on the road.

The Astros certainly needed rotation help. At the non-waiver deadline in July, they went after relief pitching, settling for Francisco Liriano instead of getting Zach Britton. That lack of big action led to Dallas Keuchel's criticizing the front office. After posting a 3.82 ERA in the first half, the rotation has a 4.79 mark in the second half.

Lance McCullers Jr. is still on the DL with back discomfort, and Keuchel has a 5.35 ERA in seven starts since returning from his own DL stint. Given the condition of those two, it's likely Verlander becomes the team's Game 1 playoff starter. The Astros will reportedly get $10 million, as well, but kudos to owner Jim Crane for agreeing to spend the money when many owners are unwilling to make this kind of move.

Tigers grade: A

Given Verlander's contract, that's a nice return of prospects. In many ways, it's a sad day for Tigers fans and the organization, but it was clear that time was up on the Verlander- Miguel Cabrera era. The team needed a complete overhaul, and this is a good starting point.