The Houston Astros have traded infielder Grae Kessinger to the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for right-handed pitching prospect Matthew Linskey, as reported by Chandler Rome from The Athletic. Kessinger, a second-round pick in the 2019 MLB draft, struggled to make an impact in the major leagues, posting a disappointing batting line of .131/.243/.213 in 49 games.

After being designated for assignment on December 23, Kessinger’s time with the Astros has officially concluded. Meanwhile, Linskey, who impressed in the Diamondbacks' minor league system, boasts a 2.78 ERA and 51 strikeouts over 32 1/3 innings last season. At just 22 years old, he brings potential to the Astros as he returns to Texas, where he played college baseball at Rice.

The Houston Astros have made a significant roster move, trading infielder Grae Kessinger to acquire young pitching prospect Matthew Linskey. This decision comes as Kessinger was designated for assignment on December 23, paving the way for the signing of first baseman Christian Walker to a lucrative three-year, $60 million contract.

Matthew Linskey, a promising 22-year-old right-handed pitcher, stands at 6-foot-7 and has shown impressive potential in the minors. He was drafted in the 16th round by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2023 and has posted a 2.75 ERA over 39⅓ innings, even reaching the High-A level in his first professional season.

Grae Kessinger, a utility infielder who has spent parts of the last two seasons with the Astros, struggled offensively, achieving a batting average of just .131 in 49 games. The Astros selected Kessinger in the second round of the 2019 draft, and he is known for being the grandson of the notable six-time All-Star shortstop, Don Kessinger. The trade was first reported by The Athletic.

The Houston Astros have officially signed first baseman Christian Walker to a three-year, $60 million contract, signaling a likely end to Alex Bregman's tenure with the team. General manager Dana Brown expressed the need to move on after negotiations with Bregman stalled, despite a competitive offer.

Walker, who previously played for the Arizona Diamondbacks, is excited to join the Astros and learn from star second baseman Jose Altuve. The Astros aim to remain competitive in the division and return to the World Series.