MVP Slugger Could Be a Perfect Trade for the Houston Astros

The Houston Astros are thriving after a recent hot streak that puts them just 4.5 games out of the American League West lead and the final Wild Card spot.

Despite rotation issues, veteran slumps and sometimes questionable performances from the bullpen, the Astros are in the thick of the postseason mix.

Perhaps the biggest question mark on the list is first base. Veteran Jose Abreu has had some time off to spend time with his family and is only now playing in the minor leagues. His return to the Major League team is unknown and what his role will be upon his return is also uncertain, with Jon Singleton currently being the lead.

Abreu, a player with a three-year, $58.5 million contract, has been that bad.

One potential answer to the problem is 2022 NL MVP Paul Goldschmidt, who could be made available at the MLB trade deadline by the St. Louis Cardinals.

Goldschmidt, 37, is struggling this season, but the veteran is far too experienced to let that slump extend into a true decline like Abreu.

Additionally, Goldschmidt is a rental, and with his current performance, that would mean his price will be lower than a younger player who has years of control over the team. He would act as a stopgap in the meantime and shore up the position until Houston could take care of it in the offseason.

MVP is a leader in the clubhouse, plays excellent defense and would be another legitimate threat in the Astros lineup. For a team with little prospect capital, Goldschmidt might just be the perfect target for Houston to value at this year’s trade deadline.