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Projecting the Astros Opening Day Roster

By Cody Poage

Feb 15, 2017; West Palm Beach, FL, USA; Houston Astros manager A.J. Hinch (top) speaks with pitchers and catchers during spring training workouts at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 15, 2017; West Palm Beach, FL, USA; Houston Astros manager A.J. Hinch (top) speaks with pitchers and catchers during spring training workouts at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 28, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Houston Astros center fielder Jake Marisnick (6) and right fielder George Springer (4) run back to the dugout after the final out of a 3-2 victory against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Houston Astros center fielder Jake Marisnick (6) and right fielder George Springer (4) run back to the dugout after the final out of a 3-2 victory against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /

Opening Day Outfield

Unlike the infield, the outfield isn’t quite as crystal clear to project.

Obviously George Springer is going to play in the outfield and most likely center field. Carlos Beltran will get some playing time in left field when he isn’t the designated hitter. Josh Reddick will handle right field duties. Nori Aoki will be one of presumably two outfielders on the bench.

The last outfield spot remaining will likely come down between Jake Marisnick and Preston Tucker. And at this point, Marisnick probably has the inside track to make the Opening Day roster. His defensive prowess, versatility, and base running abilities likely edge out Tucker.

Of course, there is still plenty to like about with Tucker. When he is healthy and his bat is on, the former Florida Gator can provide a spark off the bench. However, the Astros already have plenty of offensive weapons at their disposal. My guess is that they value Marisnick’s glove slightly more than Tucker’s offense at this point in time.

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