Houston Astros manager Joe Espada confirmed that former American League Most Valuable Player Jose Altuve will remain as their starting left fielder for Opening Day. However, his position could change depending on their needs.
Espada renewed his confidence in Altuve despite some errors during their spring training games. In addition to dropping some fly balls, he’s had 13 errors against only three putouts. On Tuesday, he misread the bounce after a hit by a Washington Nationals player. The following day, he dropped an easy fly ball.
Altuve in left field pic.twitter.com/h21w0h1eab
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) March 19, 2025
However, to keep him in the rotation, the Astros placed Altuve on the outfield. Otherwise, they must take away designated hitter Yordan Alvarez and put him on the outfield. Likewise, Cam Smith could also take Altuve’s place if needed. However, he will likely remain at third base if he remains on the roster.
In addition to his MVP trophy, Jose Altuve has won two World Series titles with the Astros. He is a nine-time MLB All-Star, a seven-time Silver Slugger awardee, and a three-time All-MLB member. Altuve led the American League in batting average thrice and in stolen bases twice. The 34-year-old Venezuelan played at second base for most of his career.
-Lance Fernandez