Astros 'still in talks' to acquire former AL batting champion from Rays

Colin Keane

Astros 'still in talks' to acquire former AL batting champion from Rays image

The Houston Astros have been aggressive on the trade market, and Tuesday could bring another huge trade.

Houston made an excellent addition to their staff on Monday by acquiring Yusei Kikuchi of the Toronto Blue Jays, one of the best starters available.

Astros general manager Dana Brown is still looking to add to Houston's plate production, however. One of the teams that Brown will be on the phone with leading up to Tuesday night is the Tampa Bay Rays.

MLB.com's Francys Romero reported late Monday night that the Astros are discussing a Yandy Díaz trade with the Rays.

"Three teams are still in talks with the Rays and are the main candidates to acquire INF Yandy Díaz: Pirates, Yankees and Astros," Romero said.

Díaz, 32, was an All-Star for Tampa Bay last season, not to mention the American League batting champion. He would be a monstrous acquisition for Brown and the Astros as they look to continue their hot summer and win the AL West.

With Houston's division rival the Seattle Mariners also adding key pieces, the Astros will push hard to get a Díaz deal done.

More MLB: Astros enter high-stakes bidding war with Yankees, Padres for Cubs starter

Colin Keane

Colin Keane Photo

Colin Keane is a contributing journalist for The Sporting News. Born in Illinois, Colin grew up in Massachusetts as the third of four brothers. For his high school education, Colin attended St. Mark's School (Southborough, MA), where he played basketball and soccer and served as student body president. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Villanova University. Colin currently resides in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.