Chicago Cubs Rumor notebook: Pete Alonso a fit for the Astros, Elias Diaz, and more

It was at the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline last season when the Chicago Cubs' interest in New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso was made public.

The Cubs and Mets had brief discussions regarding a potential deal that would have sent Alonso to Chicago but the belief was that talks would be revisited during the off-season. Talks between the Cubs and Mets regarding Alonso never materialized last offseason, with the can being kicked down the road to a potential move at the deadline this season.

As it turns out, Alonso is no longer a clear fit for the Cubs.

Cubs' rookie first baseman Michael Busch is ascending toward being one of the best hitters in the National League, giving the Cubs less desperation to make a move for a first baseman such as Alonso.

It would seem that the idea of the Cubs trading for Alonso can all but be ruled out, however, that doesn't mean that slugger will not be on move.

The Houston Astros are among the teams who have expressed interest in trading for Alonso. The Astros released Jose Abreu earlier this offseason and are looking for a first baseman. It seems they also had interest in Cody Bellinger prior to his injury.

Elias Diaz is still a popular name in Cubs' trade rumors.

Colorado Rockies catcher Elias Diaz has been an oft-rumored target for the Cubs at the deadline, with the latest coming from Jim Bowden of The Athletic (Subscription Required).

Diaz has shown some signs of slowing down offensively after his hot start for the Rockies but is still slashing .296/.340/.417 on the season with a 97 wRC+.

If the Cubs do decide to buy, addressing the catcher position remains a likely move. Even with a 97 wRC+, Diaz would be a significant upgrade over Miguel Amaya (48 wRC+) and Tomas Nido (56 wRC+).

Infielders could dominated the trade market at the deadline

Among his latest musings for the New York Post, Jon Heyman mentions Marlins' Jazz Chisolm, Cincinnati Reds' Jonathan India, and Tampa Bay Rays' Isaac Paredes among the infielders that could be moved by July 30.

If the Cubs decide to sell, Nico Hoerner could be included in that mix.