The Boston Red Sox have been hunting for a reliable first baseman for what feels like an eternity, but this offseason they made a splash by bringing in Willson Contreras. However, with Contreras entering the later stages of his career, the Red Sox may still be eyeing a long-term solution at the position. Enter Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes—two names that have been swirling in trade rumors for months.

According to a recent report from Robert Murray, the Astros could be open to selling, with Walker and Paredes emerging as prime trade candidates. Walker, 35, is having a strong second season in Houston, slashing .276/.351/.513 with nine home runs and 27 RBI. He's locked in through 2027 on a three-year, $60 million deal, making him an intriguing option for any team needing first base help.

But the real buzz surrounds Isaac Paredes. While the Red Sox were heavily linked to him during the winter, they're far from alone in the race. "Paredes has been the subject of trade rumors for months. The Boston Red Sox were connected to him in the winter, but they were not the only team with interest," Murray reported. Paredes is currently hitting .271/.362/.391 with three home runs and 17 RBI this season.

The Astros haven't been as disappointing as the Red Sox this year, but they're close enough that a mid-season shakeup feels inevitable. Paredes seems destined to be traded within the next few months, and Boston could use his bat—especially with a glaring need at third base. Still, unless the Red Sox can turn their season around quickly, it might be wiser to wait until the offseason to address their roster issues in a more measured way.

For now, the Red Sox have competition, and the trade deadline drama is just heating up. Whether they land Paredes or pivot to another target, one thing is clear: Boston's front office isn't done shopping.