The Houston Astros kicked off the unofficial start to spring with their FanFest, offering fans a first glimpse at what the 2026 roster could look like. But while the event brought plenty of energy and optimism, it’s clear the Astros still have some roster puzzles to solve – particularly in the infield and on the mound.
Manager Joe Espada addressed some of those questions, outlining the current plan for a team that remains in flux. One of the biggest takeaways? José Altuve is headed back to his roots.
After spending much of 2025 in the outfield – a move born out of necessity more than preference – Altuve is expected to return to second base as his primary position this season. He’ll still get occasional reps in the outfield, but with Zach Cole now in the mix, the Astros don’t need to lean on Altuve’s versatility quite as heavily. That’s a win for both the defense and the longtime cornerstone of the franchise, who’s always looked most comfortable turning double plays up the middle.
But while second base seems to be claimed, the rest of the infield picture is far from settled. Carlos Correa, who’s been working exclusively at third base this offseason, appears locked in on the hot corner. That creates a bit of a squeeze for Isaac Paredes, who had been loosely linked to third as well.
Instead, Paredes is expected to get reps at second – where Altuve is now slated to play – and also split time at first base with Christian Walker. On paper, that sounds like a flexible, plug-and-play approach. In reality, it’s a bit more complicated.
The Astros are carrying some financial constraints, with less than $10 million in room before hitting the first Competitive Balance Tax threshold. That puts pressure on the front office to make tough decisions, and it’s hard to see a scenario where everyone fits cleanly into the puzzle.
Walker, owed $20 million in each of the next two seasons, could be tough to move. That makes Paredes the more likely trade chip – a versatile, younger, and more affordable option who could help Houston address other needs, particularly in the outfield or with starting pitching depth. And if the Astros want to keep some financial flexibility for a midseason move, freeing up Paredes’ salary might be the cleanest path forward.
Right now, Espada and GM Dana Brown are talking about plans that include both Walker and Paredes, but there’s a sense that this could be more about maintaining leverage than setting a long-term strategy. The club’s depth is a strength, but it’s also a logjam – and sooner or later, someone’s going to be the odd man out.
For now, the Astros are keeping their options open. But as spring training inches closer, expect the picture to come into sharper focus – and don’t be surprised if it involves a move that helps balance the roster and the books.
