Unfortunately, there comes a time in every man’s life when… he has to rebuild.

Some managers might be embarrassed by the word and instead opt for softer terms, such as “retool,” “restructure,” or “reconstruct.” Call it whatever you want, but it boils down to the same thing—shipping off some quality pieces in exchange for future lottery tickets.

In this 3 Up, 3 Down article, I’ll highlight three players I’d be targeting during a “refurbish.” These aren’t top-50ish prospects that might not be expensive or unattainable.

3 Up, 3 Down - Prospects Live
Prospects LiveTom Gates

The 3 Down portion will focus on players I’d consider moving if I found myself needing to “repair” my team. Their value hasn’t really decreased. In fact, their value might be at an all-time high, meaning the only way to go is down. For that reason, I might be selling.

🔥 3 Up

Kevin Alvarez, OF HOU (DSL)

.330/.415/.495, 2 HR, 4 SB, 9.4% BB, 9.4% K

Stats & Background
The 6'4" Cuban outfielder signed with the Astros for $2 million during the 2025 international free agency period. Matt Thompson noted Alvarez has “one of the highest offensive upsides in the class,” describing him as long, lean, and reportedly stronger than expected. Thompson projected Alvarez as a middle-of-the-order bat with a hit-power combo fit for a corner outfield spot in Houston’s lineup.

Present Day
Alvarez debuted in the DSL on June 17th—a relatively late start that might work in our favor, as he’s still under the radar. Rhys White had this to say after watching him early:

“He reminds me of an Eduardo Quintero starter kit.”

And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want Eduardo Quintero right now?

Projection & Rankings Update
There’s always a point in the rankings where I hit a wall—where the “safe” players have clear flaws and I find myself gravitating toward high-upside wildcards. Alvarez slots in there for me right now, around 150th in the July update. It’s early, it’s risky, and I’ll likely be one of the high guys on him. But if he pops, this is the cheapest he’ll ever be.

Trade Idea
I wouldn’t move a premium piece for him. Ideally, Alvarez is the third piece in a larger deal where you’re targeting two more substantial assets. If that’s not feasible, I’d be fine swapping a productive but aging MLB arm like Adrian Houser to get him.

Luis Suisbel, 1B/SS/3B SEA (High-A)

.241/.342/.448, 14 HR, 4 SB, 11% BB, 25.6% K