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3mo ago

Astros Restructure Lineup with Altuve Batting Second and Peña Leading Off

Jose Altuve requested a move to the No. 2 spot to adjust for his new role in left field, while Jeremy Peña's speed and on-base skills earned him the leadoff position.

Houston Astros center fielder Jake Meyers hits the wall while trying to catch a double by Detroit Tigers' Dillon Dingler during the ninth inning of a baseball game Monday, April 28, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
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Detroit Tigers' Kerry Carpenter (30) drops his bat after hitting a two-run home run as Houston Astros catcher Yainer Diaz watches during the third inning of a baseball game Monday, April 28, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Houston Astros' Jose Altuve (27) drops his bat after hitting a two-run home run against the Detroit Tigers during the sixth inning of a baseball game Monday, April 28, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

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.