Astros could have a perfect match in the trading market

If the Houston Astros want to acquire a first baseman before the trade deadline, there’s an obvious adjustment in Washington.

That Astros run this season with a squad that performs at almost every level. That doesn’t mean they won’t take steps to give themselves an even better shot at winning the World Series.

With the August 2nd trading close fast approaching, the clock is ticking to materialize a deal.

If Houston wanted to get aggressive, there’s an obvious target in the market.

Astros could have a perfect match in the trading market

According to FanSided MLB insider Robert Murray on the Baseball Insiders Podcastthe Astros hope to add a catcher and first baseman before the close.

As luck would have it, the nationals could also try to move Josh Bell to deadline.

The trading partnership basically writes itself.

“I think Josh Bell makes a lot of sense [in Houston] and I know I’m not alone in thinking that, Murray said.

First baseman Yuli Gurriel is 38 years old. He’s hitting at a higher rate than ever before and his WAR this season has plummeted into the negative. His signs of slowing are clear and manager Dusty Baker is giving him several days off this week because his legs hurt.

Gurriel can still contribute for Houston, but it would make sense to bring in insurance like Bell did.

Bell is 29 years old and hit .311/.393/.502 with 12 home runs this year. Last year he started 27th.

Aside from the first base option, Murray also watches the Astros scout their options with the catcher. While they are very fond of Martin Maldonado from a defensive standpoint, a more offensive presence at the position would be welcome.