Jose Altuve Returns to Second Base, Focused on Consistency for Astros

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Jose Altuve made his Grapefruit League debut Friday night with a familiar stride, returning to second base – the position he’s called home for the vast majority of his Major League career. The move signals a shift for the Houston Astros after experimenting with Altuve in left field last season.

Back Where He Belongs

After a year that saw him transition to left field, Altuve expressed his happiness at returning to his natural position. He’s in a familiar spot at second base, so there’s excitement to be back there, said Astros manager Joe Espada.

The Astros initially moved Altuve to the outfield in an attempt to bolster their infield defense, particularly with ground ball pitchers Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez on the mound. However, injuries ultimately led to Altuve playing more games at second base (61) than in left field (44) in 2025.

Addressing 2025’s Challenges

Altuve’s 2025 season saw a dip in offensive production, with a .265 batting average, 26 home runs, and 77 RBIs. His .771 OPS was his lowest since 2013. Recognizing the demand for improvement, Altuve has been working on adjustments to his swing.

I feel like last year I had moments where I was remarkably bad and others where I was very good, Altuve said. There’s a big difference between the two, so I don’t need it. It doesn’t feel good when things are going very badly. I’m looking for more stability and consistency, and I’m working on my swing, my step, trying to make stronger contact and maintain consistency. Jose Altuve, via Houston Chronicle

Altuve has been focusing on refining his left foot strike and adopting a more open stance to better utilize the field.

Looking Ahead

Despite turning 36 in May, Altuve remains committed to playing a significant role for the Astros. He has played the most games on the team over the last two seasons (153 in 2024 and 155 in 2025) and aims for at least 155 games this year. With 2,388 career hits, remaining in the lineup will be crucial in his pursuit of 3,000 hits.

Whereas Isaac Paredes has been taking ground balls at second base this spring, Altuve has made it clear that his priority is to play as much as possible. Something that I am very proud of and that I love is playing, and I think I can play more than 155 games, Altuve stated. It’s an important number for me. That’s my main goal: to stay on the field and healthy.”

FAQ

• Will Jose Altuve play second base full-time? Yes, the Astros plan to have Altuve play second base full-time, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
• What adjustments is Altuve making to his swing? He is working on his foot strike and stance to improve consistency and contact.
• How many games did Altuve play in the last two seasons? He played 153 games in 2024 and 155 games in 2025.

The Astros are hoping Altuve’s return to second base, coupled with his offensive adjustments, will provide a spark to the team as they start the 2026 season.