Report: Astros Pursuing Nationals' First Baseman Josh Bell

The Houston Astros are reportedly pursuing trade target Josh Bell of the Washington Nationals.

General manager James Click stated the Houston Astros will be aggressive this season by the Aug. 2 trade deadline. According to a report from Andy Martino of SNY, the Astros are pursuing first baseman Josh Bell.

The Washington Nationals are sellers and are undergoing a rebuild only three seasons after winning the World Series. With Bell being the best first baseman on the block, contenders may over bid on the switch-hitting rental.

Bell — who will be a free agent come November — has the 11th best OPS (.894) in Major League Baseball. The 29-year-old is slashing .311/.390/.504 on the year with 13 home runs, 21 doubles and 42 walks to 53 strikeouts. 

Yuli Gurriel continues to struggle after an average month in June. The righty is hitting .235/.286/.386 with only seven home runs and 19 walks. Gurriel has postseason experience and Gold Glove defense, but as his offensive numbers don't return to normal, his time starting at first base is slipping away.

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