It looks like Alex Bregman is not the Houston Astros’ favorite anymore! Amid the speculations surrounding Bregman’s future, Astros’ skipper Joe Espada has made a surprising revelation about their new prospect, the 21-year-old Cam Smith, who has the potential to lead the team in the upcoming years. Think that makes sense? Looking at Cam Smith’s 2024 performance, who managed to hit an average of .258 over 51 games and also made starts at the third base, it does.

With 54 hits, eight doubles, five triples, and 12 home runs, Smith surely looks like a generational talent with that performance at such a young age, and that’s why the Astros have high hopes for him. But then, what lies ahead for Alex Bregman? Bregman is yet to find a perfect landing spot after declining a six-year, $156 million contract as he sought something around $200 million, which the Astros were unwilling to offer.

On February 11, Joe Espada made the Astros’ plans clear, commenting, “This guy can carry your team for years. He has that kind of potential.” Going by Espada’s statement, Cam Smith has the potential to carry the team given that he can play at the third base and is athletic enough to play the corner outfields too. Yes, Cam Smith has displayed great potential at this young age, and Joe Espada heaps praise on him. However, Espada wants to give him enough time to get accustomed to the roster.

Considering Smith to play at third base once he joins the team, Espada even mentioned that despite his size, the soon-to-be 22-year-old makes swift movements, and with an average of.313 in 2024, he can surely fill the gap posed by Bregman at this time. Yet, the Astros decide not to rush into things and wait for Smith to make a call instead on where he wants to play. While the Astros plan to make him a leader, they made some good strategic moves this offseason.

The Astros’ unique strategy revealed

The Houston Astros, mainly known for their effective strategic moves, have moved their infielder, Zach Dezenzo, to left field. The main reason behind this is to address the uncertainties and speculations surrounding the Astros’ lineup for the upcoming season. While Dezenzo’s best has come off when playing at the third base, this transition from the infield to the outfield, especially the left field, indicates a unique approach to increasing his production on the field. But there’s something that gives a hint of a reunion with Alex Bregman!

Well, the Astros’ José Altuve has expressed his interest in carrying out a new role in the outfield just for the sake of bringing Alex Bregman back into the lineup. Altuve, a nine-time All-Star, has a great offensive production of 306/.363/.468 and over 14 seasons of experience; however, his flexibility and adaptability represent the Astros’ commitment to improving their roster and bringing back their fan favorite, Alex Bregman. 

Do you think that Cam Smith can be a great leader for the Houston Astros? What are your opinions on Alex Bregman’s sweepstakes and which landing spot he may find the best? Let us know in the comment section below.