Houston Astros: When can George Springer spring into action?

When can George Springer spring into action?

Aug 20, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros right fielder George Springer (4) in the dugout during the game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Astros offense has not been the same since George Springer got hit by a pitch in the last game of the Astros versus Royals series on July 1st. Springer may be as streaky as most of the Astros are, but even when he is not swinging the bat well, he affected the game with his speed on the bases and his defensive skills. I recently wrote about the team’s struggles since Springer hit the DL, you can find it here: Life without spark plug George Springer. Springer is the type of player that you can’t expect to replace when he gets injured because he is an all-around player.

The Astros tried to patch the hole left by Springer with L.J. Hoes, Jake Marisnick, Alex Presley, and the newly acquired Carlos Gomez. At the trade deadlines, there must have been some concern by Jeff Luhnow that Springer may not be back as soon as it was expected. This belief could justify the Astros sending a package including one of the Astros top prospects in Brett Phillips to the Brewers.

The acquisition of Gomez could have been done to strengthen the overall outfield even when Springer returns. It’s not out of the question that Springer starts in right, Gomez in center, and Preston Tucker and Colby Rasmus split time in left. This would leave Marisnick as a pinch runner and defensive replacement outfielder. Who makes the postseason roster is still up for grabs, but let’s focus on when we can expect Springer to return?

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