The Houston Astros possess loads of talented outfield prospects in the minors. Some are blossoming sooner than others. And with the team’s complicated outfield situation in the MLB, could that provide Kyle Tucker and Myles Straw an opportunity to secure roles in the near future?
The Houston Astros don’t have many weakness throughout their roster. However, Houston’s outfield crew isn’t one of the most prestigious ones in the league.
But the farm system could be the answer in upcoming seasons. Of the several highly-touted prospects the Astros have in the minors, Myles Straw and Kyle Tucker are centerpieces.
The primary issue for Houston resides in left field, as Marwin Gonzalez will be a free agent this offseason. Thus far, he has the most starts in the position, though he plays elsewhere frequently. Five other players have starts in left field as well, but none seem like a surefire, future everyday starter.
Gonzalez is a key component in the roster, and he enjoyed a breakout season in 2017. Yet, his follow-up campaign has been a disappointment – he has a .253/.329/.393 slash. It is unsure whether the Astros plan to re-sign him this offseason.
While the club’s center fielders technically are underperforming compared to the rest of the league, that’s because George Springer has played right field in 42 games. Nevertheless, Springer and Jake Marisnick are under contract until 2021.
Josh Reddick also hasn’t been at his best this season, putting his career with the Astros in jeopardy. While the outfielder is under contract until 2021, he could be involved in a trade over the next few years.
Overall, Houston’s brightest up-and-comers in the minors might complicate the situation.