Jake Meyers remains on the Houston Astros roster, but his future with the team is uncertain. Astros manager Joe Espada hasn’t committed to Meyers as the starting center fielder, possibly due to the front office’s ongoing efforts to trade him before the season kicks off.

Meyers had an impressive 2025 season, despite a midseason injury that slowed him down. He posted a .292/.354/.373 slash line, with a 103 OPS+-his best since his rookie year in 2021. With Meyers still under team control through 2027 and offering solid defense in a crucial position, it’s intriguing that Houston hasn’t moved him yet.

So, why hasn’t Meyers been named the Astros’ starting center fielder?

The center field spot has been up for grabs since the start of Grapefruit League play. Meyers, along with Cam Smith, Zach Cole, and Brice Matthews, has been sharing time in center field, but no clear leader has emerged.

Espada could easily name Meyers as the starter, especially after making decisions like pushing Jose Altuve back to second base and assigning Yordan Alvarez as the everyday DH. The corners of the outfield seem to be a bigger concern than center field right now.

However, Espada might be strategically keeping his options open, encouraging competition among the young talent in the clubhouse. Naming Meyers the Opening Day center fielder could dampen the spirits of other players vying for a spot. Plus, with the unpredictability of injuries during spring training-highlighted by Meyers missing two months last season-Espada might be playing it safe.

In reality, the Astros are likely still exploring trade options for Meyers. He could bring value to several teams, and Houston is on the hunt for a left-handed bat, which could be part of a potential trade deal involving Meyers.