The MLB trading deadline is coming up at the end of July, and there are quite a few teams looking to wheel and deal. As usual, there are many teams that are looking to make a big splash with the hope that they can contend for a playoff spot, while there are other teams that are looking to sell off their talent and bring in some young players to help build up their future.

Justin Upton is one name that has come up over the past couple weeks as a potential trade target, and the San Diego Padres appear to be open to moving him. He was acquired by the Padres from the Atlanta Braves last offseason, and has had a solid season with them. According to a report from Jon Morosi, the Houston Astros are a team to keep an eye on in the Upton sweepstakes.

#Astros also have interest in Justin Upton. #Padres, with 1.0% chance of winning division per @fangraphs, look like a seller. @FOXSports

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 19, 2015

So far this season, Upton has recorded a .252 batting average to go along with 15 home runs and 49 RBIs. He has played in 89 games so far, and is without question capable of being the type of difference maker who can put a borderline playoff team over the hump. Houston currently has a 51-43 record and is a piece or two away from competing for a playoff spot.

Houston is going to be the only team interested in acquiring a player with the talent that Upton possesses. There are quite a few teams around the league that could use a bat with the type of pop that he has.

At just 27 years old, Upton is ready to hit open free agency following this season. Whoever ends up acquiring him could very well be looking at a rental for the second half of the season, which might throw some of his value out of the window. That being said, the chance to acquire a player with his talent and have a chance to re-sign him long-term is going to be enough to get him moved if the Padres can get the type of value that they are looking for in return.

That being said, the Astros are a perfect fit for the talented outfielder and would benefit the most of any other team by acquiring him. Even though other teams could use some outfield help as well, the Astros are currently sitting in the second wild card spot in the AL. They have been needing some more offensive firepower, and this would be exactly what the doctor ordered for them.

Looking ahead to the deadline, it is going to be filled with rumors and a lot of excitement. Upton’s name is going to be mentioned often, but at this point in time it wouldn’t be surprising to see him end up with the Astros. They have the pieces to make a move for him and they have a need. They are desperate to make a move to help fuel their postseason hopes.

Evan Massey is a featured writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter at @Massey_Evan and like him on Facebook.