Houston Astros manager Joe Espada informed media on Wednesday that career second baseman Jose Altuve will begin his spring training in left field on Friday.
The Astros have a spot free in the outfield after trading for All-Star Kyle Tucker. Additionally, Altuve has stated that he will play anywhere required on the field.
In his 14 seasons, Altuve—who turns 35 in May—has played 1,766 games at second base and two at shortstop, never filling in at the outfield. A former American League Most Valuable Player and nine-time All-Star, he took second place in 2015 for the Gold Glove.
But in recent seasons, his second-base defensive numbers have declined. He has recorded two seasons with a minus-13 defensive run save total and a minus-15 defensive run saving total over the last three seasons.
However, the seven-time Silver Slugger hasn’t lost his attacking game. Over that period, Altuve, a three-time American League hitting champion, has averaged.300,.311, and.295.
Altuve’s transfer to left field is going well, Espada told reporters on Tuesday.
Espada remarked, “He’s actually been pretty good out there.” “We can adjust the setting and the loudness during practice, but once the game begins, he will be put to the test and we will be able to better gauge his progress. The job has been fairly decent thus far, and the attitude is just what we’re looking for.”
At second base, Mauricio Dubon leads the depth chart at the moment, although Luis Guillorme and Brendan Rodgers are posing a threat.
On Friday at West Palm Beach, Florida, the Astros will play the St. Louis Cardinals
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