Jose Altuve has been the Houston Astros’ longtime second baseman ever since his debut, but it seems his role may change a bit this season. While he will still play second base, it doesn’t sound like it will be as frequently as in previous years. The Astros are likely exploring more flexibility in their lineup, and Altuve could see time at other positions to maximize his impact on the field.
Houston Astros general manager Dana Brown recently discussed the possibility of Jose Altuve playing a different position, with left field being a potential option. This shift would stem from the idea of re-signing Alex Bregman, who would take over third base, leading to a series of lineup changes. Brown mentioned that if Bregman returns, he would be the starting third baseman, which could prompt Altuve to move to left field to accommodate the change.
The move might also be influenced by the recent trade for Isaac Paredes, who played third base for the Chicago Cubs last season. Altuve, known for his dedication to the team, seemed open to the idea of playing left field, saying, “For Alex, I’d do whatever.”
However, Brown’s comments hinted that the potential move could also be part of a broader strategy to balance the Astros’ lineup. The left-field experiment may be contingent on adding another player, ensuring the roster remains competitive.
“We aren’t taking anything off the table and we’re weighing all options,” Astros general manager Dana Brown said, emphasizing that the team is considering all possibilities for Jose Altuve’s role. While Altuve will still play second base frequently, Brown noted that the team is open to exploring him in left field as part of a broader strategy. The decision will depend on what the coaching staff envisions for the lineup, but no option is being ruled out at this stage.
A couple of factors are contributing to this consideration. First, the Astros traded away Kyle Tucker earlier this offseason, creating a gap in right field. Houston has several outfield options, but few possess the offensive pop of Altuve—aside from Yordan Alvarez, who will see more time at designated hitter. This could make a move to left field more appealing to help balance the lineup and fill the void left by Tucker’s departure.
Houston is reportedly eyeing another infielder, Jorge Polanco, according to multiple sources. Polanco, who also plays second base, could further impact the team’s roster decisions if added. His arrival would likely force the Astros to make adjustments, including potentially shifting Altuve to left field on a more regular basis.
In fact, Altuve has already started logging practice time in left field, signaling the team’s readiness to experiment with the move. This shift would mark a significant change for Altuve, especially as he enters his age-35 season. Despite being one of the most accomplished second basemen in MLB history, Altuve has never played a single inning in the outfield at the Major League level.
Regarding Alex Bregman, Dana Brown still sees a resolution with the star third baseman as a “long-shot.” Brown acknowledged that discussions with Bregman’s agent, Scott Boras, are ongoing. Bregman had previously turned down a six-year, $156 million offer from the Astros earlier this offseason, leaving his future with the team uncertain.
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