Houston Astros Spring Training: The Battle for Third Base

Feb 22, 2016; Kissimmee, FL, USA; Houston Astros infielder Luis Valbuena (18) prepares to take batting practice at Osceola County Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 22, 2016; Kissimmee, FL, USA; Houston Astros infielder Luis Valbuena (18) prepares to take batting practice at Osceola County Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /
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TYLER WHITE

Tyler White at third - Photo Credit to Tammy Tucker @HooksFanTammy
White at third – Photo Credit to Tammy Tucker @HooksFanTammy /

As we covered earlier in this series, Tyler White is one of many players cursed by the Astros’ sudden logjam of prospects coming off of strong seasons in the minors.

White is only 25 and opened eyes with his bat and patience.  As an added bonus, White has played 165 at 3B versus 82 at 1B over three seasons.

But he started 25 games at 1B after his call-up to Triple-A Fresno as doubts about his defensive ability took fruition. His defense will work against him, but not as much as the inevitable arrival of A.J. Reed.

Despite his previous experience, Astros GM Jeff Luhnow firmly stated that White will not play at third. Evan Gattis‘ hernia surgery could create more playing time for White at DH, which may ultimately be where he sticks.

Next: Matt Duffy