Check out this recent post from MLB Trade Rumors:

The Athletics talked to the Astros about a possible trade involving Jed Lowrie earlier this winter, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. The A's weren't prepared to meet Houston's asking price of both Chris Carter and a young pitcher in exchange for Lowrie, who has drawn interestfrom several teams this winter.

Interesting. It's unclear if the Astros asked about Chris Carter before Carlos Pena and/or before Singleton's suspension. It's also unclear what type of pitching prospect the Astros were interested in.

Although Carter swings-and-misses a lot, he gets on base at a decent clip, and would've provided the Astros with much-needed power. Also, more controllable years than Lowrie. However; Lowrie plays a premium position and I think Luhnow can get more value during the season, when teams are desperate to add a piece.

Still, it's nice to know what type of haul Lowrie would net.