Jose Altuve is open to switching positions to keep Alex Bregman with the Houston Astros. The star second baseman has expressed his willingness to adapt for the benefit of the team, especially given Bregman’s significant impact on their success.
“We haven’t talked about it, but for Alex, I’d do whatever,” Altuve stated during Astros FanFest. “He’s one of the best players in the whole league, definitely one of the best on this team. We want him to stay, and I’m ready to make any adjustment needed for that to happen. … Our chances of winning a championship improve with [Bregman].”
If Bregman returns, the Astros will need to reassess their depth chart. Bregman has been a mainstay at third base throughout his nine-year MLB career. Currently, Christian Walker plays first base, while Jeremy Pena holds down shortstop. Isaac Paredes, acquired from the Chicago Cubs in the Kyle Tucker trade, has experience at both first and second base, which could facilitate a shift to second if Bregman reclaims the hot corner.
This potential reshuffling would likely push Altuve, a nine-time All-Star, into the role of designated hitter or possibly even the outfield, a position he has never played at either the MLB or Minor League level.
Astros manager Joe Espada believes that the team can adapt their defensive strategy if Bregman returns. “I respect his willingness to do whatever it takes,” Espada noted about Altuve. “We’ve discussed what our lineup could look like with Alex back, and I’m confident we could make it work if he decides to return.”
Beyond Houston, teams like the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox have shown interest in acquiring Bregman, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his future.
Last season, Bregman, a Gold Glove winner and two-time All-Star, recorded 26 home runs and 75 RBIs over 145 games, with a batting average of .260. His .768 OPS marked the lowest of his career as he approaches his 31st birthday in March.
Altuve, who turns 35 in May, also had a solid season, finishing with 20 home runs and 65 RBIs while hitting .295 in 153 games. Both players have spent their entire MLB careers with the Astros, contributing to the team’s World Series victories in 2017 and 2022.
Despite a rocky start to the 2024 season, the Astros rallied to finish strong, winning the AL West with an 88-73 record. However, their postseason run ended abruptly when they were swept by the Tigers in the AL wild-card round, losing 8-3 in total.
