Former Astros World Series MVP Could Be Poised for a Major Breakout Season
As the Houston Astros prepare for the 2025 season, the team is going through a period of transition. With the roster looking noticeably different from previous years, some fresh faces and changes could lead to unexpected breakthroughs. One player to watch this season, who could be a sleeper for a breakout year, is a former World Series MVP who has something to prove.
The Astros’ lineup will look quite different as they head into the upcoming season. Two homegrown stars, third baseman Alex Bregman and right fielder Kyle Tucker, were lost in the offseason. Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million deal with the Boston Red Sox, while Tucker was traded to the Chicago Cubs, leaving significant gaps in the Astros’ core.
To compensate for the departures and the lack of outfield production in 2024, the Astros are making a bold decision by shifting former MVP Jose Altuve from his usual second base position to left field. This move, while ambitious, is fraught with risk. Altuve’s defensive ability at second base had already begun to show signs of decline, and his transition to left field has so far been far from smooth. The Astros could quickly find themselves rethinking this choice if his struggles continue.
Another area of concern is the Astros’ outfield defense, which will undoubtedly be under the microscope in 2025. The starting right fielder will be top prospect Cam Smith, who was acquired in the blockbuster deal that sent Tucker to the Cubs. Smith, a former first-round pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, was originally a third baseman, which raises questions about his adjustment to the outfield. While having two natural infielders in the corner outfield spots is certainly a gamble, the offensive potential they bring is undeniable.
With these lineup changes and new additions, there’s one player in particular who could surprise everyone with a major breakout season: the former World Series MVP. The stage is set for him to step up in a new role, bringing his championship experience and hunger to prove himself once again. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on this Astros player to see if he can capitalize on the opportunity and make a significant impact, potentially being the unexpected star that Houston needs.