May 20, 2022; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros general manager James Click looks on during batting practice before the game against the Texas Rangers at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Astros had their eyes set on one trade deadline target, but the asking price is high.
The Houston Astros made the statement of all statements after the All-Star break by defeating the New York Yankees in a doubleheader. Now, they are climbing up the American League standings and inching that much closer to the top seed. With the trade deadline approaching, the team has the chance to make some additions to increase their odds of making it to the World Series for the fourth time in six years.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Astros have been taking a look at Washington Nationals first baseman Josh Bell. While Heyman writes that the two teams have exchanged names, “the ask was said to be high.”
Astros trade target Josh Bell’s asking price said to be high
Heyman writes that the team was looking at Bell because of Yuli Gurriel’s struggles. This season, the first baseman is slashing .238/.291/.390 while recording seven home runs, 27 RBI, and 78 hits through 91 games.
The Nationals are prepared to be one of the league’s biggest sellers at the trade deadline. While Juan Soto is the big name, Bell is also garnering some attention. He is putting up solid numbers this season and is set to become an unrestricted free agent this winter.
Bell carries a .302 batting average and a .877 OPS while recording 13 home runs, 53 RBI, and 109 hits through 99 games played.
Heyman notes that the New York Mets have made an offer for Bell, but they “don’t seem as likely to land him.”
The trade deadline is Aug. 2, and it will be interesting to see if the Astros or any team for that matter are able to get the Nationals to agree to trade Bell.