How the Houston Astros Could Trade for Diamondbacks’ Christian Walker

Over the past few weeks, the Houston Astros have completely turned their fortunes around. With a 13-3 record in their last 16 games, the Astros are now a serious threat in the American League.

At one point, Houston was expected to look to sell talent before the MLB trade deadline. Now it appears they could end up becoming buyers.

Recently, it was announced that the Astros have a dream target for a trade before the trade deadline. That dream target has been named Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Christian Walker.

Walker is a popular name in trade rumors ahead of the trade deadline. However, it seems unlikely that the Diamondbacks will part ways with their first baseman.

Mark Powell of FanSided revealed a possible scenario that could send Walker to Houston.

In his suggested trade scenario, the Astros would acquire Walker in exchange for first baseman/outfielder Joey Loperfido and right-hander Alimber Santa. Santa is the 25th prospect in Houston’s farm system.

“The Astros desperately want Walker, which is why they would be willing to accept this trade in the first place. After Abreu performed so poorly, Walker offers a potential long-term solution at the position, assuming the two teams can work out an extension before this winter.”

Giving up Loperfido would be a difficult decision, but acquiring Walker would be worth it.

During the 2024 season with Arizona, Walker played in 89 games. He hit .268/.341/.516, with 22 home runs and 64 RBIs.

Those are the numbers that could take the Astros to the next level. He could be a piece that propels them into the playoffs.

While Walker’s acquisition potential is enormous, he is set to become a free agent after the 2024 season. Houston general manager Dana Brown is looking for players with control over their future contracts.

Despite the risk they would be taking, the Astros seem to like Walker. Acquiring him wouldn’t guarantee a long-term future with him, but Houston would have a chance to secure its new first baseman with a long-term contract extension.

Only time will tell what the Astros do before the deadline. They still have a few weeks to decide what to do and who to pursue or trade.

Walker is a player they are interested in and this trade proposal would be a way for Houston to make a deal to land a dream target.