Houston Astros seen as best trade for star slugger

The Houston Astros are looking to be active before the MLB trade deadline earlier next week.

Even general manager Dana Brown has publicly stated that he would like to “think big” at the trade deadline. The Astros will likely focus on two primary needs.

Those two needs are the starting pitcher and first base.

Over the past few weeks, many names have been suggested as potential trade targets for Houston. One of the most prominent names they’ve been linked to is Toronto Blue Jays star first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Launderer’s Report The Astros have once again linked Guerrero to the Blue Jays. They believe Houston is a leading potential contender to trade the star first baseman if the Blue Jays do trade him.

“Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported on July 4 that the Astros would like to upgrade their first base. And they should, as the position ranks last in MLB with a -1.4 WAR and a .586 OPS. But can the Astros convince the (apparently reluctant) Blue Jays? They might not, and Houston is already $24.6 million over the luxury tax threshold.”

To be exact, the Astros were ranked as Guerrero’s No. 2 potential destination. Who was ahead of them? None other than the American League West rival Seattle Mariners.

Guerrero would be a huge asset for Houston. He would help them be competitive this season, but could also be a potential long-term asset. An extension would have to be negotiated, but the Astros would have time because his current contract has one more year, through 2025.

During the 2024 MLB season, Guerrero once again had a breakout year. He played in 101 games for Toronto, batting .296/.365/.487 to go along with 18 home runs and 62 RBIs.

That’s the kind of production that could make Houston a legitimate contender in the American League this season.

While it seems unlikely that the Blue Jays will end up trading their superstar, a compelling offer can convince anyone to make a deal. The Astros should definitely make some calls to try to acquire him.

Expect to hear more Houston rumors in the coming days. Guerrero is a name to watch, although he’s unlikely to be traded.