Report: Astros Willing to Trade All-Star Hunter Pence, Rival Executives Expect Him to Be Dealt

Hunter Pence was the Houston Astros' lone representative at this year's All-Star Game in Phoenix. Now, it appears he could be on the move.

ESPN's Buster Olney reports that Houston is showing a willingness to trade the two-time All-Star outfielder. In fact, he said that rival executives expect Pence to be dealt prior to the trade deadline.

It was also reported by David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Wednesday that it sounds as if the Atlanta Braves are close to acquiring a right-handed bat.

With the Braves in need of some more offensive punch in their outfield, Pence could potentially be a target. Olney also said via Twitter that the Braves have prospects to make a deal happen.

The 28-year-old Pence entered Wednesday hitting .315 with 11 home runs, 61 RBIs and seven stolen bases. He's finished with 25 home runs each of the past two seasons.