The All-Star and veteran of the Houston Astros, José AltuveHe is facing a new stage in his career with his transition from the second base to the left garden. This change of position, driven by significant movements in the team template, generates uncertainty about the defensive performance of the MVP and how will affect the dynamics of Astros in the 2025 season.
Altuve, 34, played his entire career in the second base, accumulating 1,749 games in that position without having played a single entry into the gardens at the major league level. However, after Alex Bregman’s exit to Boston’s red socks and Kyle Tucker’s transfer to Chicago puppies, the stars decided to restructure their interior picture, giving Isaac Paredes space, who arrived in the exchange for Tucker.
The Venezuelan has had difficulties in his first meetings of spring training, dropping elevated in consecutive games against the New York Mets. Despite this, Altuve remains optimistic:
“Obviously I am not very happy with today or yesterday, but I am sure: when I want something to go as I want, I will do my best to get it. I think, in the end, I will play well in the left garden”Altuve told The Athletic.
Why do stars bet on this change for Altuve?
The manager of the stars, Joe Espada, considers that this decision is key to the success of the team in 2025. Although Altuve had defensive problems in the second base in 2024, being located in the third percentile in scope and the seventh percentile in arm force, the team is confident that its ability to adapt and experience will allow it to succeed in its new position.
In addition, this movement allows strengthening the offensive of the stars with the incorporation of walls into the inner picture, without sacrificing the presence of Altuve in the alignment. With an PAHO of .831 (129 OPS+) in his career, the Venezuelan bat remains a key piece in the production of the team.
Impact on the 2025 season for Altuve and the stars
The success or failure of this change of position will depend on how fast Altuve can adapt to the left garden. If you can improve your defense and stability in the new position, the stars could have a more balanced and competitive alignment. However, if your defensive problems persist, Houston could be forced to reconsider your strategy in full season.
Altuve’s commitment is undeniable: “I have gone through difficult situations before and I overcome them. I am ready to go out and play well in the left garden. I promise that I will continue working hard and be a great left gardener”. Its determination will be key to defining the impact of this movement and the future of the stars in the American League.
