The Houston Astros are eager to enhance their first base situation and may soon have an All-Star option available.
Zach Pressnell of FanSided proposed a trade idea that could work well for the Astros, especially with growing speculation about first baseman Josh Naylor’s future with the Cleveland Guardians. Naylor’s contract is nearing its end, and while he has played well, it’s uncertain if the Guardians will offer him an extension. If they decide to part ways, Houston should be the first team to reach out.
Pressnell suggests that the Astros could trade pitching prospects Miguel Ullola and Jose Fleury to Cleveland for Naylor. This trade seems fair, as both pitchers have shown promise and had strong performances last season.
Naylor, who just received his first All-Star selection, could become a trade candidate if he continues to struggle in the second half of the season or in the playoffs. Even if he performs at a lower level, he would still represent a significant improvement over the Astros’ first base output from last year.
Over the past two seasons, the 27-year-old has recorded a .272/.335/.471 batting line, boasting a better average in 2023 and hitting a career-high 30 home runs in 2024. The Canadian doesn’t strike out much, brings power to the plate, and is at least average defensively at first base.
In contrast, the Astros’ first basemen this season have combined for a disappointing .226/.291/.360 line, leading to the highest strikeout rate and the fewest RBIs in the lineup—an untenable situation for a team aiming for a World Series title.
Given the Astros’ current situation, trading a couple of promising pitchers seems like a worthwhile gamble. Ullola is the team’s top-rated pitching prospect and ranks seventh overall in their farm system. An international signing from 2021, he has quickly developed into an intriguing talent, with a mid-to-high 90s fastball that could make him a valuable bullpen asset.
Fleury is also progressing well in his career and is similarly regarded. Originally signed for just $10,000, he got off to a strong start and has continued to build on that success.
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