Carlos Correa, once celebrated as a top defensive player, faces another potential position shift. After being sidelined since May due to an ankle injury, Correa might rejoin the Houston Astros soon, as they chase an American League playoff berth. He could return to play at his third infield location this season.
Currently rehabbing in Florida, Correa practiced ground balls at second base, as reported by Brian McTaggart from MLB.com. Over his 12-year MLB career, Correa has excelled as a shortstop, evidenced by his Platinum Glove win in 2021, before shifting to third base last year. Second base, however, remains uncharted territory for him.
Strategically, the Astros intend to keep Isaac Paredes at third base and reposition Jose Altuve from second base. Paredes ranks as Houston’s standout player this season, boasting 3.9 WAR and 21 home runs as of Monday. In contrast, Altuve has struggled defensively at second base at 36 years old. Correa’s defensive skills outshine both Paredes and Altuve, making him valuable at any infield spot.
A potential concern for the Astros is that designating Altuve as a hitter would necessitate Yordan Alvarez playing left field, a move that may increase Alvarez’s physical strain. As the Astros aim to secure a playoff spot, winning the AL West might be crucial. They are currently contending with the Texas Rangers for position. With little room for experimentation, the Astros must make effective decisions regarding Correa’s placement, or risk watching the playoffs from afar.
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