This trade greatly benefits both organizations.
The A's are still gearing up for a run at the division title by adding a talented and versatile shortstop in Lowrie, who hit 16 home runs and posted a 2.1 WAR in only 97 games last year.
The Astros, who are clearly rebuilding, ship off Lowrie, who at 28 is in the middle of his prime, to make room for their future shortstop Carlos Carrera. They also received powerful first baseman Chris Carter and pitcher Brad Peacock. Carter swung a strong bat last year by hitting 16 bombs in only 67 games last year and with the short porch in left at Minute Maid Park, that could be a nice combination. Peacock has shown potential too. He was ranked as the 42nd best prospect in 2011 and should crack the Astros rotation fairly soon.
