Houston Astros 2021 Year in Review: Jake Meyers

After coming on the scene late for the Astros, Jake Meyers’ season didn’t end as planned.

While slashing the cover off the ball (1.006 OPS) in Triple-A, the Houston Astros saw potential in Jake Meyers, and thought it was best to move on from Myles Straw at the trade deadline.

Meyers started to find a platoon role with Chas McCormick in center field, as Jose Siri, who will be competing in the Dominican Winter League (LIDOM) this year, joined the mix in September.

Yet, in the American League Division Series, Meyers was removed from the game with a shoulder injury, as he tried robbing a home run ball in Chicago. The 25-year-old was on the American League Championship roster, but never saw playing time due to his injury.

After being left off the World Series roster, Meyers had surgery to repair a labral tear in his left shoulder, the Astros announced on Wednesday. Now, he will likely not be ready by Opening Day, leaving an optimal platoon between McCormick and Siri to start the season.

Regular Season

After Meyers’ contract was selected from Triple-A, the Astros took on some tough competition after the trade deadline in Los Angeles and San Francisco. The right-hander didn’t find too many at-bats, while going 0-for-3 with two strikeouts.

Meyers pounced on the opportunity to start following the Astros’ National League competition, as he slashed .260/.323/.438 during the regular season in 146 at-bats. His 107 OPS+ had him slightly better than the average player as well.

The righty flashed his speed on the base paths as well with three stolen base, while never caught stealing. Meyers also committed only one error in the field; the left-hander converted 75 of his 77 chances across all three outfield positions.

Postseason

While only playing in the ALDS, Meyers still made his name known to Chicago White Sox fans. The righty posted a 3-for-8 line across four games, as he picked up two RBI and a stolen base in his only postseason series.

Future

Of the three center fielders on the 40-man roster, Meyers has the most upside for the future. The Astros could look into Kyle Tucker to man center with Meyers out, and move McCormick and Siri to platoon right field. But in the end, Meyers would likely be the first option when healthy.

A Meyers and McCormick platoon makes the most sense when he returns, as the organizations waits to see what the future holds for Pedro Leon. With more at-bats coming to Meyers in the ’22 season, there is more to evaluate, as he has struggled against right-handed pitchers.

Grade: B