Who’s really on second base for the Astros moving forward? Joe Espada’s comments about José Altuve being the primary second baseman in 2026 — while also experimenting with him in left field in 2025 — raise bigger questions about Houston’s infield direction. We break down what Espada’s words actually signal and how much positional flexibility the Astros are building into their roster. We also discuss whether Isaac Paredes is a legitimate option at second base if the Astros choose not to trade an infielder, or if he’s better suited as a versatile, matchup-based piece. Plus, we map out how playing time could realistically be distributed in a no-trade scenario with Carlos Correa at third, Jeremy Peña at short, Altuve at second, Christian Walker at first, Yordan Alvarez at DH, and Paredes floating around the infield. To wrap it up, we ask a key lineup question: should the Astros pursue left-handed hitter Ryan O’Hearn? Would his bat help balance a right-heavy lineup, and does he fit better as a first base/DH option or a platoon piece? We break down the pros, cons, and whether O’Hearn makes sense for Houston’s roster construction. Join the Everydayer Club lockedonastros.supercast.com Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey. As part of the Locked On Podcast Network, we bring you the latest Astros news, in-depth game analysis, player updates, and exclusive insights — every single weekday. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, stay connected with everything happening in Astros baseball. Tune in on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, never to miss an episode. 🎧 Subscribe today and make Locked On Astros part of your daily routine — perfect for your commute, workout, or coffee break. 📺 We’re growing fast on YouTube — help us reach 20,000 subscribers by subscribing now and joining the best Houston Astros community online! / @lockedonastros https://linktr.ee/LockedOnAstros Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOAstros?sid=Y... Locked On MLB League-Wide: Every Team, Prospects & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnMLB #Astros #HoustonAstros #MLB Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rugiet Ready to level up your confidence ? Head to https://rugiet.com and use promo code LOCKEDONMLB for 15% off your first order. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONMLB at https://monarchmoney.com/lockedonmlb for 50% off your first year. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
