Astros Make Unexpected Jose Altuve Decision Before Yankees Game

Altuve has provided all this offensive production while learning to play left field, transitioning into a versatility piece for manager Joe Espada.

With Alvarez returning and splitting time between left field and designated hitter, Altuve hadn’t started in left field for the entire month of August—his last appearance there came on July 28. But with Alvarez getting a day off Tuesday, Espada unexpectedly slotted Altuve back into left for the series opener against the New York Yankees.

Although Altuve made the start in left, the move was primarily to give Alvarez a break as he continues to recover from a right hand injury. Altuve’s shift to the outfield has opened up more infield opportunities for other players this year, especially at second base.

Defensively, Altuve has declined entering his age-35 season, which likely explains why the Astros have limited his outfield usage.

Statcast backs up the decision to keep him out of left field unless necessary:

• 26th percentile in arm strength
• -4 outs above average
• 38th percentile in sprint speed

Although Altuve has become more of a defensive liability, he’s made it clear that the move to become versatile is for the good of the team—something he’s always embraced as the Astros’ captain.