The Houston Astros started the season slow, but have since picked up their play, and are now firmly in the playoff race. They do however have some clear needs. One of their biggest needs is first base and their target has been revealed. Reports suggest that the Astros prefer to trade for Christian Walker.

Walker plays for the Arizona Diamondbacks, who remain unclear whether they’ll buy or sell at the deadline. If they sell, however, Walker will bring strong value. He’s currently enjoying a .265 average and a .846 OPS with 22 home runs this season. He also provides tremendous defense, having won gold gloves in each of the past two seasons.

What Would An Astros-Christian Walker Trade Look Like?

A trade for Walker certainly would not come cheap. He’s having a great year and provides both offense and defense. The Diamondbacks would likely seek young players or prospects in return.

Outfielder Luis Baez makes for an intriguing option. He’s ranked by MLB Pipeline as the Astros number two prospect. Baez isn’t expected to arrive in the majors until 2027, so he doesn’t fit the Astros timeline. They are looking for players to contribute right now before their window of contention closes. Baez provides lots of raw power and a strong arm. He’ll likely end up being a corner outfield player.

Pitcher Miguel Ullola is another option to consider. Ranked as the Astros number nineteen prospect, Ullola provides less value than Baez. He still has an upside, however. He has a very strong fastball but needs to develop his other pitches. Ullola isn’t expected in the MLB until 2026, so once again, isn’t in the Astros timeline.

Both these prospects would be solid additions to the Diamondbacks’ prospect pool. While they certainly won’t be thrilled to lose Walker, Baez, and Ullola are a great consolation prize. It remains undetermined if the Arizona Diamondbacks will be sellers, but if they are, the Houston Astros will prefer a a Christian Walker Trade

Potential Trade Package

Houston Astros Receive: Christian Walker

Arizona Diamondbacks Receive: Luis Baez, Miguel Ullola