Houston Astros: How To Fix the Hole in the Bottom of the Lineup

Candidate #3

Tony Kemp–

Kemp is a high average guy that has upside both in the field, in his ability to play the outfield and second base, and on the base paths.

Through 24 games at Fresno this season, Kemp is hitting .294 with an OPS of .735. His two extra base hits are triples, and the rest are singles. He has also scored nine times and has driven in 7.

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He has an ability to get on base with his speed. He has three stolen bases in six attempts so far this season and can get on base with a BABIP of .359.

However, just like the rest of the hitters in the Astros system, Kemp has a bit of trouble with the strikeouts. He has a 17.7% strikeout rate. His walk rate is a bit better than most though at 12.5%, which is expected at the top of any lineup.

Kemp would need time to develop in the major leagues, not only because of his bat but because of his transition to the outfield. Because Jose Altuve is taking hold of that starting spot at second base, Kemp has transitioned to playing center field for the Fresno Grizzlies. He may not be ready to take on the vast center field at Minute Maid Park yet, but he certainly has the speed to do so.

With a utility and speed aspect to his game to go along with a contact type of bat, Kemp would be a great addition to the bottom end of the major league starting lineup.

Next: Astros Live Game Feed: Game 30 Preview

These three players are going to take the time to develop, but their offensive presence at the end of the Astros lineup make it more well rounded.

***Stats fro Baseball-Reference***