Report: Astros aggressively seeking lefty bat, eyeing Orioles' Mullins

The Houston Astros appear ready to make a move before the trade deadline and have a specific type of player in mind.

Houston is aggressively seeking a left-handed bat and eyeing outfielder Cedric Mullins of the Baltimore Orioles, reports USA Today's Bob Nightengale.

The Astros' starting lineup is heavily right-handed, with lefty slugger Yordan Alvarez on the injured list. Taylor Trammell and Cooper Hummel (switch-hitter) both hit from the left side and play the outfield for Houston, but neither has the same experience or credentials as Mullins.

Mullins, a former All-Star and Silver Slugger, owns a .741 career OPS but has struggled at the dish this season. Through 66 games, he's slashing .210/.295/.412 with 12 home runs and 38 RBIs.

The 30-year-old is eligible for free agency at the end of the season for a last-place Orioles club that could be sellers entering the July 31st trade deadline.