MLB Rumors: Anthony Rizzo is Astros' Top Target for First Base; Gurriel, Abreu Linked

According to a report, the Houston Astros are looking to add a strong first baseman in the off-season.

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Astros are interested in a trio of free-agent first baseman.

According to Rosenthal, the Astros are the top free-agent target at first base. The Yankees are considering signing Yuli Gurriel and José Abreu, but signing Anthony Rizzo would serve the dual purpose of bolstering their own roster and making them less competitive.

During their four-game sweep of the Yankees in the ALCS, the Astros got a good look at Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo. He struggled at the plate, hitting 3-for-12 with a home run and four runs scored.

In the regular season, he hit.224/.338/.480 with 32 homers and 75RBI in 130 appearances. One of the best fielders at his position, the 33-year-old was named one of the finalist for the Gold Glove Award. He has several gloves on his mantle.

It would be somewhat of a surprise to see him leave the Cubs after they lost to the Astros in the playoffs.

If Houston misses out on Rizzo, either Gurriel orAbreu would be more than adequate replacements. The 2020 American League Most Valuable Player had a good season at the plate but his power waned.

Retaining Gurriel would maintain the team's core since he has been with the Astros for seven years. He had a down year last year in which he hit.242/.288/.361 with eight home runs and 53RBI.