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Astros Manager Sends Exciting Three-Word Message About Former Top Prospect

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jake Elman | Last updated Feb 24, 2025 8:12 AM ET

Houston Astros veteran first baseman Jon Singleton is almost certainly headed for a backup role this season.

At least Singleton will look good doing it.

“He is ripped,” manager Joe Espada said.

The 33-year-old Singleton, who was once a consensus top-30 prospect, told the Astros’ official website he’s lost 25 pounds. Singleton devoted himself to a “serious weight-lifting program” and changed his eating habits.

“This is definitely going to be a huge year,” Singleton told MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart.

Jon Singleton, who went nearly 8 years between @MLB plate appearances, just hit his first career Yankee Stadium home run — and it reached the third deck. Remarkable journey for him and his family. @MLBNetwork @Astros pic.twitter.com/zHs7b6mE6B
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) May 9, 2024

“I’ve prepared well enough and it’s time for the training and all the hard work to take over,” he added.

Singleton set career-highs in every significant category, mashing 13 home runs in 119 games.

Singleton debuted in 2014 after signing a five-year, $10 million contract. However, he hit just .171 with 151 strikeouts in 114 games across two seasons.

According to Baseball-Reference, he managed only a -0.9 WAR in that time.

Singleton spent the next two years in the minors before a 100-game suspension for a third failed drug test.

After briefly spending time in the Mexican League, Singleton returned to the majors in 2023 with the Milwaukee Brewers. He rejoined the Astros later that year and has stuck around since.

Espada told reporters he expects Singleton to get “good ABs” against right-handed pitchers.

“He did a nice job for us at first base last year, so he’s making the best out of his second chance in his career,” Espada said.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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