Jose Altuve to Play Mostly Left Field for Houston Astros

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The Houston Astros are planning to play Jose Altuve mostly in left field this season, according to manager Joe Espada. This decision marks a significant change for Altuve, who has played all but two of his 1,767 major league games at second base. As a nine-time All-Star, three-time batting champion, and the 2017 AL MVP, Altuve has consistently demonstrated his skills on the field, including winning the Gold Glove in 2015 and leading the American League with the fewest errors in 2020.

According to Espada, the plan is for Altuve to play the majority of his games in left field, which will allow the team to be more creative with their lineup. On days when Altuve plays second base, it will open up opportunities for other players, such as Yordan, to get a start in left field or have a DH day. This move is expected to bring a new level of flexibility to the team's roster. The idea of moving Altuve to left field was first considered when the team was trying to keep third baseman Alex Bregman, who ultimately signed with the Boston Red Sox.

Altuve has expressed his willingness to adapt to the new position, stating that he is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team. With this change, fantasy managers can expect Altuve to have eligibility at both second base and left field. The Astros' decision to play Altuve in left field is likely to have a significant impact on the team's overall performance, and fans will be watching closely to see how this new arrangement plays out. Some of the key benefits of this move include:

• Increased flexibility in the lineup
• Opportunities for other players to get more playing time
• Potential for improved team performance with a more balanced roster

The Astros' manager, Joe Espada, has emphasized that the team will avoid moving Altuve back and forth between positions, in order to allow him to settle into his new role. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Altuve adjusts to playing mostly in left field and how this change affects the team's overall strategy. With Altuve's proven track record of success and his willingness to adapt, the Astros are likely to be a strong contender in the upcoming season.