MLB Trade Rumors: Christian Walker a ‘Dream Target’ for Astros amid Guerrero Jr. Buzz

Andrew PetersJuly 5, 2024

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Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Christian Walker is reportedly a “dream target” for the Houston Astros ahead of the MLB trade deadline, per the New York Post’s Jon Heyman.

Heyman reported that the Astros are seeking a starter who can hit, potentially a first baseman, and Walker is the player they’d prefer.

Walker, who will be a free agent after the season, has 20 home runs, 59 RBI and a .267 batting average to start the season. Landing him ahead of the July 30 trade deadline would certainly be the upgrade the Astros are seeking, but it would likely take a lot to get Arizona to trade him.

The report about Houston’s pursuit of Walker comes amid buzz surrounding Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. In June, Astros insider Michael Schwab reported that Guerrero is one of the top trade targets for Houston, which would be another potential upgrade at first base.

How aggressive the Astros are willing to be to improve is unclear, but they would likely need to put together a lofty haul for either Walker or Guerrero.

After a somewhat shaky start to the year, Houston has put together a solid stretch over the past month to get itself above .500 on the year. The Astros have won 12 of their last 14 games and currently sit in second place in the AL West.