Astros reportedly targeting blockbuster trades for star first basemen

The Houston Astros have been one of MLB's best teams over the last month and have a chance to make a serious run for the division in the second half.

With the July 30 trade deadline quickly approaching, the Astros have made it clear they intend to upgrade the first base position, especially after the release of the struggling Jose Abreu.

According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic , Astros general manager Dana Brown is targeting some star power at first base ahead of the trade deadline.

"He’s talked to the Mets about Luis Severino and Pete Alonso, and has discussed Christian Walker with the Diamondbacks, Cody Bellinger with the Cubs and Andrew Vaughn with the White Sox," Bowden wrote.

Just one game out of the top spot in the AL West at 50-45, the Astros have been on an incredible run over the last month, holding a ridiculous 20-10 record. Only the Mets (21-9) have a better record in the last 30 games.

Adding the likes of Alonso or Walker would give the Astros another devastating piece of the lineup. Alonso may not be enjoying a typical season, but he's an upgrade over the .588 OPS the Astros have gotten from their first basemen — though Jon Singleton (.904 OPS) has been strong over his last 15 games.

Despite their slow start, the Astros shouldn't be counted out as a team that could make a run following the All-Star Break.

And if they add another power bat to the lineup at first base, it should only increase their chances of taking the division.