Astros Manager Reveals Surprising Jose Altuve Position Change
When the Houston Astros were working to re-sign Alex Bregman, the idea of shifting Jose Altuve to left field first emerged. The plan was that if Bregman stayed, newcomer Isaac Paredes would take over second base, moving Altuve to the outfield. However, with Bregman signing a three-year, $120 million contract with the Boston Red Sox last month, it seemed Altuve’s time in left field would be more of a secondary role.
Astros manager Joe Espada, however, provided a surprising update. Speaking to reporters, including Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle, Espada confirmed that Altuve will primarily play left field this season. “Right now, the plan is for him to play the majority of his games in left field,” Espada stated. “Back and forth is something that I am going to avoid.”
This marks a major shift for Altuve, who has spent his entire 14-year MLB career as a second baseman. The nine-time All-Star has excelled in the position, even winning a Gold Glove in 2015. Despite his success, the Astros are committed to transitioning him to the outfield.
Altuve’s adaptation to left field will be an intriguing storyline moving forward. Early signs from Spring Training suggest he’s handling the position well, as demonstrated by his impressive play against the left field wall during a recent game against the Washington Nationals.
