MLB Rumors: Rockies lose trade chip, Red Sox shifting, Cubs and Astros trade?

MLB rumors: Position tweak pushing toward Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros trade?

While Cody Bellinger may still be on the injured list, there’s a real possibility that he could be seeing time at first base when he returns to the Chicago Cubs. That could be very good news for the Houston Astros if they were to pursue a trade with the Cubs for the former National League MVP.

Bellinger has played first base in 262 MLB games over his seven big league seasons, so the move is not a big surprise. With Bellinger slashing .271/.337/.493 in the midst of his one-year, $17.5 million “prove it” deal with the Cubs, the franchise will likely have to decide well before the MLB trade deadline if he is a part of their future plans or could be used as a trade chip at the MLB trade deadline.

Should the Cubs go with Plan B, the Astros would very likely be interested in talking. Houston ranks dead last out of MLB’s 30 teams when it comes to bWAR at the position (minus-2.0), further proof that the Jose Abreu signing this offseason has been a complete dud.

With the Astros wanting to get back to the World Series, first base will likely be a priority for the team as the MLB trade deadline approaches. If Bellinger can keep hitting and the Cubs are willing to move him, the fit in Houston could be quite nice as Bellinger’s redemption arc could potentially continue in south Texas.