The Houston Astros are eyeing a few top first basemen ahead of the upcoming MLB trade deadline, but one standout target is emerging as the most likely. Reports indicate that Houston has been in contact with the New York Mets about star slugger Pete Alonso, making him a prime candidate on their wishlist.
To facilitate discussions with New York, FanSided’s Zach Pressnell proposed a compelling trade package. The deal would see the Mets send Alonso to the Astros in exchange for shortstop Brice Matthews, outfielder Zach Cole, and right-handed pitcher Miguel Ullola.
This trade would cost Houston a lot from their already thin farm system, but the Astros are growing desperate for an upgrade at first base. So far this year, their first basemen have combined for a disappointing .210/.283/.324 slash line with 10 home runs and 40 RBIs. The position, typically occupied by sluggers, has underperformed offensively.
Alonso would be a significant upgrade. In 2024, he’s slashing .240/.319/.454 with 19 home runs and 51 RBIs, despite a slow start. He’s on track for his third consecutive All-Star appearance and fourth overall. His addition would boost a lineup already featuring Yordan Alvarez and Kyle Tucker.
However, at 29 years old, Alonso would be a short-term solution unless the Astros re-sign him when he becomes a free agent at the end of the year.
While the proposed trade would cost Houston a lot for a rental, Alonso’s impact could be crucial for a playoff push. Matthews, the No. 3 prospect in Houston’s system, is a high-upside bat drafted in the first round in 2023. Cole, a top-five prospect, is a versatile outfielder with defensive skills but needs to improve at the plate. Ullola, a hard-throwing pitcher, has shown promise in Double-A.
Giving up three promising prospects for a third of a season is a steep price, but it might be what the Astros need to secure their top target and strengthen their playoff run.
