Astros: Predicting 30-man roster to begin 2020 season

The Candidates — Position Players

At this point, I’m going to assume the Astros will carry an even split of 15 pitchers and 15 position players. I could also see them going with one extra pitcher, especially if they’re wary of stretching out the pitchers after an abbreviated “Spring Training” ramp-up period.

I have to think the first position player to make it would be Garrett Stubbs. His ability to serve as a third catcher as well as play in the infield or outfield in a pinch would make him extremely valuable. The race for the 26th roster spot was probably down to him and Straw, so Stubbs is a pretty safe bet.

With Tucker and Straw on the roster already, and with Diaz’s ability to play left field if needed, the Astros will probably go with an infielder for their final roster spot. The choice would probably come down to Abraham Toro and Jack Mayfield. This will be a tough decision that might be decided by looking at who plays better in camp.

Toro is probably limited to the corner infield positions, while Mayfield can play second, third and short. Toro will definitely have more offensive upside, though, and is a switch hitter. So do they go with Mayfield’s defensive versatility or Toro’s more potent bat? Given that Stubbs and Straw can fill in at the middle infield positions if needed, and given that Gurriel and Diaz are the only two players who can legitimately play first base, I’d give the edge to Toro. But it’ll be close.