The Houston Astros are ready to make a roster shake-up before Opening Day with their eyes on 22-year-old Cam Smith. The top prospect was not expected to be in the interaction for a big-league role just yet. However, his performance this spring has forced a serious discussion. The third-baseman has been on fire. He posted a .615 batting average with two homers, a triple, and seven RBIs. Smith’s offensive explosion has left the team with a decision to make—and it looks like the Astros are already leaning in one direction.

GM Dana Brown has been vocal about Smith’s power. “A lot of times it stems from, look, this guy can carry a team for a stretch“, Brown said, referring to Smith as an “aircraft carrier”. The term used for talents who can shoulder the offensive load paints a clear picture of how the team views Smith’s effect. But, raw talent alone is not enough to ensure a roster spot—scope plays just as big a role.

Also, the Astros infield has some question marks after Alex Bregman’s departure, making third base a place of interest. The Outstanding Pro Prospect award winner, standing at 6-foot-3 and 224 pounds, has the physical presence to take over the hot corner. The team has other options, containing Mauricio Dubón. However, Smith’s power potential is something that can not be ignored. Joe Espada did not shy away from praising him either. “I just think this kid is a special talent,” Espada said. “I am excited to have him in the organization and about what he is doing.” When the manager and the GM of a team are dropping hints, the writing on the wall becomes clearer.

What makes this situation more intriguing is that Smith was not expected to be in this position so soon. The initial approach was for him to get more seasoning in Triple-A. However, his spring training has accelerated the timeline. Astros GM Dana Brown admitted as much when he said, “Make no mistake, I am not afraid to put this guy in the big leagues. We are having these discussions right now. This guy is good“. That confidence says that Cam Smith’s scope of making the Opening Day roster is stronger than ever.

Is it a rookie gamble or a necessary move for the Houston Astros?

The Astros have faced this dilemma before—deciding whether to trust a promising young talent or take a more cautious approach. In 2019, they called up Yordan Álvarez midseason after he dominated Triple-A. The outcome? He crushed 27 home runs in 87 MLB games and ran away with AL Rookie of the Year honors. But not all prospect’s transitions have been that seamless. Forrest Whitley, once regarded as the Astros’ future ace, never lived up to expectations because of injuries. He struggled to adapt to the major leagues. Smith’s case provides a similar risk-reward situation—will he be the next Álvarez? Will he need more time like Whitley?

The Astros’ track record highlights they are ready to bet on young talent when the situation calls for it. Jeremy Peña’s 2022 promotion to replace Carlos Correa was met with skepticism. However, he delivered in the biggest moments and won ALCS and World Series MVP. Smith’s scorching in spring training says he is ready for the challenge. If Smith can sustain his momentum, Houston Astros could have no choice but to trust him in a vital role from day one.

With a few games left in spring training, the team still has time to make a final decision. However, the momentum is to be shifting in Smith’s favor. If he continues to swing the bat like he has, Houston could not have a choice but to give him his shot in the majors. What do you think—do the Astros need to make the move and provide Smith to take the field on Opening Day?