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The second baseman for the Houston Astros, Jose Altuve, asked manager Joe Espada to kick him out of the leadoff spot for unique reasons.
The 34-year-old Altuve plays left field for the first time in his career after spending the first 14 years of his career at 2 base.
The Astros star needed a little more time to hit the outfield to the dugout than the old spot on 2 base, so he asked to drop it from the leadoff spot.
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The Houston Astros left fielder Jose Altuve (27) during a match against the San Diego Padres at Daikin Park on April 18, 2025. (Troy Taormina-Immagn image)
“We only need 10 more seconds,” said Altuve.
Altuve was moved into the outfield following the departure of outfielder Kyle Tucker and third baseman Alex Bregman.
The Astros' game against the Detroit Tigers on Monday was the first time since 2023 that Altuve had his second hit outside the leadoff spot. Shortstop Jeremy Pena hit the leadoff in his place.
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Houston Astros' Jose Altoub will attack the RBI sacrifice fly in Houston on Sunday, April 13, 2025 in seven innings of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels. (AP Photo/Kevin M. Cox)
“I just told Joe that I could have a couple of games at some point and I did it today,” Altoub said. “It took a little extra time to come from the field on the left and he decided to put Jeremy (there's there).”
“I enjoy playing baseball,” Altoub said. “I especially love playing with these guys. I love being in the lineup. Ultimately, it doesn't really matter if I lead, whether I'm second or left.
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The Houston Astros left fielder Jose Altuve (27) on April 13, 2025, on a line drive that hit a hit line drive by Los Angeles Angels Kylen Paris in the nine innings of a baseball game in Houston. (AP Photo/Kevin M. Cox)
Over his career, Altuve hit the leadoff in 919 games, placing second in the lineup in 541 games and third in 333 games.
In 28 games this season, Altuve has a batting average of .272 with four home runs and 12 RBIs.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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