Houston Astros first baseman Christian Walker received positive news regarding the oblique issue that has limited him during spring training. Walker flew back to Houston for an examination, and Astros manager Joe Espada reported Friday that the MRI did not reveal any strain. Walker is expected to return to the team's spring training camp and will gradually ease back into activities.

Walker, who turns 34 on March 28, had an impressive season last year, batting .251 with a .335 on-base percentage, 26 home runs, and 84 RBIs in 130 games for the Arizona Diamondbacks. In December, he signed a $60 million, three-year contract with the Astros, solidifying his role as a key player for the team. The Astros are optimistic that Walker's quick recovery will allow him to contribute significantly as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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The Astros are taking a cautious approach with Walker's return, ensuring he regains full strength before resuming full participation. Espada emphasized the importance of Walker's health and the team's commitment to supporting him through his recovery. As the season approaches, the Astros are confident that Walker's experience and skill will bolster their lineup and help them achieve their goals. Fans and teammates alike are eager to see Walker back in action, contributing to the team's success on the field.

The idea of Jose Altuve transitioning from second base to left field emerged when the Astros reengaged with Alex Bregman late in the offseason. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, there were discussions about re-signing Bregman, moving Isaac Paredes from third base to second base, and shifting Altuve to the outfield. Initially, many were skeptical of this plan, given that Altuve had only played six major league innings at a position other than second base—all at shortstop. However, as Houston's chances of reuniting with Bregman dwindled, the Astros continued to give Altuve reps in left field.
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Both manager Joe Espada and GM Dana Brown have expressed their desire to see Altuve in left field and reduce Yordan Alvarez’s time in the outfield. Despite Bregman ultimately signing with Boston, the experiment of Altuve in left field has persisted. Espada and Brown are optimistic about Altuve's ability to adapt to his new position, believing it will benefit the team's overall defense and lineup flexibility.

Jose Altuve finally got his chance to make a defensive play in left field, showing both the highs and lows of his transition from second base. During the Astros' 4-3 loss to the Nationals at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches, Altuve's first opportunity came in the top of the first inning. What should have been a routine out turned into a misplay when shortstop Luis Guillorme's error allowed the ball to roll into shallow left field. Altuve, backing up the play, attempted to throw out Nathaniel Lowe at the plate but ended up making an errant throw, compounding the mistake with another error.
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However, Altuve redeemed himself in spectacular fashion two innings later. Racing to the warning track, he made an impressive catch against the wall to rob Keibert Ruiz of a potential extra-base hit. The catch earned him applause from the bullpen and high fives from his teammates when he returned to the dugout, reminiscent of the celebration after a home run. "Good to make the first one," Altuve said, hopeful that this defensive gem is just the beginning of many more to come as he adjusts to his new position.

Houston Astros star Jose Altuve is preparing to make his spring training debut on Friday, and for the first time in his career, he will be playing left field. Manager Joe Espada shared the news with reporters on Wednesday, highlighting Altuve's willingness to step into the outfield following the offseason trade of All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs. With an opening in left field, Altuve, traditionally a second baseman, has expressed his readiness to play wherever the team needs him. Despite never having played outfield in his 14 major league seasons, Altuve is embracing the new challenge.
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Altuve's defensive performance at second base has declined in recent seasons, registering a minus-15 defensive runs saved over the past three years. However, his offensive prowess remains strong, with batting averages of .300, .311, and .295 during that span. Espada reported that Altuve is adjusting well to his new position in left field, though he will face more rigorous testing once games begin. "He's actually been pretty good out there," Espada said. "Right now, the attitude is exactly what we're expecting and the work has been pretty good." As the Astros gear up for the season, Altuve's flexibility and commitment will be crucial assets.

The Houston Astros have reportedly renewed their interest in acquiring St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado. Previously, Arenado had vetoed a trade to the Astros due to his full no-trade clause, but recent developments suggest he might be willing to reconsider. The Astros' recent moves, including signing first baseman Christian Walker, indicate their commitment to contending, which could make the prospect of joining Houston more appealing to Arenado.
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Arenado's potential move to the Astros comes after the team lost third baseman Alex Bregman to free agency. With the Cardinals and Astros re-engaging in trade talks, Arenado's willingness to waive his no-trade clause could pave the way for a significant roster shakeup. The Cardinals are in a position to get a decent return for Arenado, whose elite defense and power-hitting capabilities make him a valuable asset. As the hot stove cools off, all eyes are on whether Arenado will don an Astros uniform for the 2025 season.