Houston Astros linked to suggested trade sending Kyle Tucker to NL contender

The 2024 MLB season did not go as planned for the Houston Astros. Heading into their series against the Los Angeles Angels, the Astros are only 28-35 and don’t appear to be a playoff contender at all.

Unfortunately, injuries have been a major setback for Houston this season. Just recently, they were forced to lose Cristian Javier and José Urquidy for the rest of the season. This has led many to wonder whether or not the Astros could become sellers before the MLB trade deadline.

Reports and rumors suggest that Houston could consider trading Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker and more. While the franchise may not choose to sell, speculation is rife.

Tucker is one of the most intriguing potential trade options for opposing teams. He is one of the best outfielders in baseball and would have a long list of trade suitors if the Astros chose to make him available.

Zach Pressnell of FanSided suggested a massive blockbuster trade that would send Tucker to a National League contender. That contender would be the Atlanta Braves.

In his suggested trade idea, Pressnell would have Tucker head to the Braves and Houston would get right-hander Hurston Waldrep, shortstop Nacho Alvarez Jr. and right-hander Darius Vines.

Waldrep is obviously the biggest name that would return to the Astros in this trade. He is Atlanta’s No. 2 prospect and has a very bright future ahead of him. Houston would get a future key piece for its pitching staff with this move.

Alvarez is the highest position player in the Braves farm system. He is only 21 years old and already appears to be a major threat in the future.

Finally, Houston would complete its trade by receiving Vines. The 25-year-old could play in the majors early on, but needs to find a place where it’s not a pitching logjam. He could be an immediate candidate to acquire and play for the Astros.

Giving up on Tucker would be an extremely difficult decision to make. He’s had a big year so far, hitting .266 to go along with 19 home runs and 40 RBIs. He also stole 10 bases this season.

It seems much more likely that Houston will hang on to Tucker until the trade deadline. However, if they decide to sell, this would make for a very interesting trade package. While that may not be enough, it is something that will need to be considered if they commit to trading Tucker.

Expect to hear a lot of rumors and trade suggestions regarding the Astros in the coming days and weeks. They are a real wild card before the trade deadline.