Houston Astros’ rumored target doesn’t appear to want to be traded

Just a month ago, it seemed possible that the Houston Astros would be sellers at the trade deadline. After dominating baseball for most of the last decade, it seemed like their dynasty was coming to an end.

Instead, the Astros did exactly what they needed to do before the All-Star break and are now just one game out of first place in the American League West. Starting a three-game series against the Seattle Mariners on Friday, Houston has a chance to take over first place in the division.

A major turning point in events, indeed, and one that shouldn’t really come as a surprise. Of course, every dynasty must end at some point, but Houston has never given up without a fight.

They’re expected to be buyers at the trade deadline, and rumors have suggested that general manager Dana Brown has been very active. He needs to make some moves because of the injuries they’ve suffered on the mound, and the offense could improve, especially at first base.

One potential trade target is Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who Brown has reportedly expressed interest in. Guerrero may very well not be traded, as the Toronto Blue Jays have a potential superstar on their hands, but things happen.

If the Astros offered a package they couldn’t refuse, teams would often jump at the opportunity. However, that’s where the problem comes in for Houston. Their subpar recruiting system makes it hard to imagine a scenario where they could land a star like Guerrero.

Never say never, and they have shown interest, but it’s unlikely.

The idea of ​​bringing him in seems like a logical one, so it’s possible that Brown will do whatever it takes to get him on the roster.

Guerrero addressed the trade rumors with Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, acknowledging that he tries to control what he can control.

“Like I said before, I control what I can control,” Guerrero said through an interpreter. “I just try to go out there and give 100 percent and whatever happens after that, I can’t control.”

However, his next comment makes it seem like he doesn’t want to be traded.

“I would love to live in Toronto,” Guerrero said. “My family loves Toronto, my kids love Toronto, but at the end of the day, it’s a business. We all have to understand that, so whatever happens, happens. I would definitely like to stay here.”

It’s no surprise to hear that he doesn’t want to be moved, but he also realizes that business is business.

Hitting .288/.359/.456 with 14 homers and 20 doubles, Guerrero would be as perfect an addition as this team could make over the next few weeks.