The Astros’ outfield, well, isn’t projected to be particularly good this upcoming season. Other than Yordan Alvarez’s bat in left field when he is in the field, in addition to Jake Meyers’ defense in center, there isn’t a lot of projected value from that group at the moment. To no one’s shock, the organization is really hoping at least one of Joey Loperfido, Zach Cole, and Cam Smith can assume one of the primary outfield jobs. It isn’t a coincidence that those three are among top five in plate appearances by an Astros hitter in camp.
And that trio is hitting first, third, and fourth in today’s Grapefruit League game.
It’ll be interesting to see who Dana Brown and Joe Espada land on, presumably to play right field and who will occasionally handle left field. Although he isn’t playing today, Brice Matthews is also an option for a utility role in both the infield and outfield.
For as much I downplay the traditional metrics in Spring Training, Mike Burrows has put together a fine showing in camp. His sinker against right-handed hitters has looked solid for him and I’m excited to see how he pitches against a lineup that is featuring Francisco Linder, Juan Soto, and Bo Bichette. Again, it’s only Grapefruit League action, but I still appreciate the potential for a good matchup.
Come join your fellow TLA readers in watching and discussing the game, by joining the Launch Angle’s Discord server! Just use this link to join: https://discord.gg/DKXDJw9qF. For those of you who have participated in gamethreads at other site(s) in the past, you’ll probably recognize some familiar names and fellow Astros fans. (Just please say hello once you join, so we know you’re not a bot.)
Feature photo credit: Ryan Brecker
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