The Houston Astros‘ competition for center field is heating up as we get closer to the end of spring training. They have two talented and qualified players in Chas McCormick and Jake Meyers. The two have been alternating to see who will win the starting role.
Few and Far Between
Roster competitions are few and far between for the defending World Champions this spring. In the end, it will be exciting to see the competition that unfolds between both McCormick and Meyers as both have been playing many games in spring training either at center field or the other corner outfield spots.
McCormick/Meyers Breakdown
The Houston Astros competition for center field has been too close to call thus far. The breakdown for each is similar. Chas McCormick hit .245 with 14 home runs and 44 RBI and 12 doubles in 119 games last season. He controlled the strike zone, and was a consistent line-drive hitter. His quickness showed in center, and his good defense led him to a .995 fielding percentage. Also, he started five of the six games in the World Series.
Jake Meyers was productive in 2021 when he was called up. He appeared in 49 games, and hit.260 with six home runs. Offseason shoulder surgery delayed a 2022 debut. When he finally did play, he hit .227 in 150 at-bats while appearing in 52 games. Defense is the most valuable aspect of his game. However, this spring the coaches have seen improvement at the plate with his selection of pitches to hit.
Competing Hard
Both are competing hard, and will most likely continue to do so until the last spring training game of 2023. The talent level of both indicates that they both will make the roster. It will be interesting to see how Manager Dusty Baker will use them in the lineup. Both have been playing the other outfield spots, but that takes away time playing time from Yordan Alvarez and Kyle Tucker, who are the leaders of this team.
Consistent Production
The Houston Astros competition for center field will be decided in a few short weeks. Whoever wins the job will have big shoes to fill both offensively and defensively. They have not had consistent production since George Springer left after the 2020 season. They do not have to be the home run slugger, but if they can hit around .280 with 20+ home runs and 75+, RBI, the coaches would be happy with that production.
Window is Not Closing
Some might think the window is closing on this team but with players like McCormick and Meyers, along with Alvarez and Tucker, and formidable pitching this team is deep with talent. Who knows, they just might end up in the World Series again in 2023.
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