Arizona Diamondbacks’ Christian Walker reportedly a ‘dream target’ for Houston Astros

The Houston Astros are interested in acquiring Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Christian Walker before the MLB trade deadline, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported Thursday night.

But it goes beyond lukewarm interest. Heyman said Walker is the Astros’ “dream target” as they try to solidify their position in the American League West race.

“The Astros, now a clear threat to reclaim the West, are looking for a starter (or two) and a hitter (maybe a 1B if he’s a big upgrade),” Heyman wrote. “Their dream target would be Christian Walker, a Diamondbacks 1B who is a free agent.”

Walker was never considered a star, but he has gradually emerged as one of the league’s best all-around first basemen over the past few years. Between 2022 and 2023, Walker totaled 69 home runs and 197 RBIs while winning Gold Gloves in both seasons.

This year, Walker has been on an even more impressive pace. In 87 games, he is hitting .271 with an .871 OPS — both career highs — to go along with 22 homers and 62 RBIs.

Walker was sixth in the National League first basemen rankings before Bryce Harper took over the starting job. He could still get there as a backup, whose name will be announced Sunday.

Walker has also been a constant in the Diamondbacks’ offense, missing just five games over the last three seasons combined.

It remains to be seen whether Arizona is willing to part ways with Walker, a 33-year-old set to become a free agent. After all, they spent a lot of money to upgrade their roster last offseason after winning a National League title and a World Series appearance.

As the Diamondbacks recover, they could potentially make a push into the National League Wild Card race before the end of the month. However, if they fail to qualify, Walker could ultimately be offered on the trade market.

And if Walker is indeed available, it appears Houston will be a leading contender to secure his services.

The Astros have relied on veteran Jon Singleton and versatile player Mauricio Dubón at first base since releasing José Abreu in mid-June. Without their high-priced former All-Star at the position, it makes sense that Houston would want to replace him with another impact hitter, especially a reliable power hitter like Walker.

Heyman mentioned Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. as another key position player who could be moved. Diamondbacks veterans Joc Pederson and Eugenio Suarez, as well as Tampa Bay Rays infielders Isaac Paredes or Yandy Diaz, have also been mentioned as potential options to trade before the trade deadline.

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