Overview
- Jose Altuve asked manager Joe Espada to move him from leadoff to the second spot, citing the need for more time to prepare for at-bats after transitioning to left field this season.
- Jeremy Peña was promoted to leadoff for the April 28 game against Detroit, following a strong performance in the role during the previous game.
- Manager Joe Espada highlighted Peña's speed, on-base ability, and baserunning aggressiveness as key factors in the decision to place him at the top of the lineup.
- The Astros' offense has struggled early in the season, ranking near the bottom of MLB in runs per game, prompting lineup adjustments to generate more scoring opportunities.
- Altuve's move to left field, a first in his 14-year career, follows offseason roster changes, including the departures of Kyle Tucker and Alex Bregman.