MLB Rumors: Cardinals shopping, Cubs surprise suitor, Red Sox could trade fan favorite
By Mark Powell
MLB Rumors: Astros interested in Cubs’ Cody Bellinger and Marcus Stroman
The Houston Astros could use an upgrade at first base and starting pitcher. With that in mind, it’s not so shocking that Dana Brown has reportedly been in contact with the Cubs about Cody Bellinger and Marcus Stroman, per Bob Nightengale.
Bellinger has primarily been courted as an outfielder, and Houston is certainly flexible as to how they would use the former NL MVP. If anything, Bellinger resembles a deadline acquisition of Houston’s from 2022 in Trey Mancini. Should the Astros pull the trigger on this trade, though, they certainly hope Bellinger acclimates to Houston far better than his predecessor.
The Astros acquired Jose Abreu this past offseason, and he’s failed to live up to expectations. Acquiring Bellinger would move Abreu to the bench permanently.
Stroman, meanwhile, is the hottest name on the starting pitching market, and for good reason. Houston’s rotation has dealt with injuries all season, namely to Lance McCullers Jr., Luis Garcia and Jose Urquidy. Recent struggles from rookie Hunter Brown have only heightened concerns for the Astros as they looked to repeat as World Series champions.