Astros Plan Position Shift for Jose Altuve to Left Field

The longtime second baseman is adjusting to a potential role change as the team evaluates his fit in the outfield during spring training.

Astros manager Joe Espada stated that Jose Altuve is expected to play the majority of his games in left field this season, though plans remain flexible depending on his comfort and team needs.
Altuve, a nine-time All-Star and former AL MVP, has spent nearly his entire career at second base but is transitioning to the outfield for the first time in his professional career.
The move allows the Astros to explore lineup flexibility, including opportunities for other players like Yordan Alvarez to rotate between left field and designated hitter roles.
During his initial spring training games in left field, Altuve had mixed results, including a highlight-reel catch at the wall and a throwing error, as he adjusts to the new position.
Astros staff and Altuve are using spring training to evaluate his progress, with Altuve expressing enthusiasm for learning and improving in the outfield.