Around the horn: Third Base

Entering into Spring Training 23-year old Matt Dominguez was said to be the favorite for the Astros starting third base job. So far, so good. In ten plate appearances Dominguez has collected four hits (including a homer) and two walks.

Matt Dominguez (Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports)

When the Astros acquired Dominguez from Miami last summer they knew they were getting a solid glove man. They also felt Dominguez had the potential to hit 20 or more homeruns in a season. He had shown some pop in the minors, connecting for double-digit homeruns in each of the last three seasons. His defensive ability will no doubt translate the majors, it’s the offense that could take some time to develop.

It looks as though Dominguez is ahead of schedule. After hitting five longballs and slugging .477 in slightly more than 100 at-bats with the Astros last season, Matt has picked up right where he left off.

Dominguez remains the front runner for the starting job and it should be his as long as he stays healthy.

Whoever doesn’t win the shortstop battle between Marwin Gonzalez and Tyler Greene should act as back-up. Brett Wallace could also play a few games at the hot corner.