Astros' Jose Altuve to Focus on Second Base in Spring Training

Astros manager Joe Espada announces Altuve will spend most of spring working exclusively at second base.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Houston Astros are preparing for the upcoming season, and manager Joe Espada has announced that star player Jose Altuve will spend the majority of spring training working exclusively at his natural position of second base. Altuve, a 15-year veteran with the Astros, spent significant time in the outfield and as a designated hitter last season due to injuries, but is now fully healthy and ready to focus on playing strong defense in the infield.

Why it matters

Altuve's move back to second base full-time is seen as an important step for the Astros as they look to bounce back from a challenging 2025 season. Altuve's defensive prowess at second base has been a key part of the team's success over the years, and this change signals the organization's commitment to putting their star player in the best position to succeed.

The details

Last season, Altuve spent just 66 games at second base, his natural position, while playing 47 games in the outfield and 49 as the designated hitter. Much of that was due to nagging injuries, but Altuve arrived at spring training this year fully healthy and ready to focus on playing strong defense in the infield. Despite the position changes last season, Altuve's stats were not significantly affected, as he maintained a .981 fielding percentage.

  • Astros manager Joe Espada announced Altuve's spring training plans on February 16, 2026.

The players

Jose Altuve

A 15-year veteran with the Houston Astros, Altuve is a star player who has spent the majority of his career playing second base.

Joe Espada

The current manager of the Houston Astros, who announced Altuve's spring training plans.

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What they’re saying

“'Jose Altuve will spend most of his spring working exclusively at second base, Joe Espada said.'”

— Chandler Rome, Astros' beat writer (X)

What’s next

Altuve is expected to remain with the Astros throughout the World Baseball Classic and will focus on regaining his form at second base in preparation for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Altuve's move back to second base full-time is a positive sign for the Astros, as they look to capitalize on their star player's defensive strengths and help him bounce back from a challenging 2025 season.