Could Brantley Get Playing At First Base for the Houston Astros?

Michael Brantley always wanted to return to the Houston Astros. His shoulder injury that sidelined him for the better part of last season put into question whether or not the Astros would entertain the idea of bringing him back for a sixth season.

Houston, in the end, did come to an agreement with the outfielder and designated hitter in the form of a one-year, $12 million deal. When the two sides reached the deal the idea was that Brantley would take the bulk of the designated hitter at-bats.

While that still appears to be the case, there is the potential that Brantley could get playing time at first base according to MLB.com's Brian McTaggart. Even with the addition of José Abreu, Brantley could help alleviate the workload when Abreu needs a day off the field.

“We’ll see how it goes,” Brantley said. “At the same time, it’s a team-first approach always. I’ve always been like that. If I can help the team out in any way, I’ll be available. It’s a lot of hard work. I’m learning a lot very quickly, but it’s all been going smoothly so far.”

According to McTaggart, Brantley got work in at first base with first-base coach Omar López. However, the idea that Brantley will get the opportunity is far from a foregone conclusion, with manager Dusty Baker downplaying the idea. . . for now.

The main goal is getting Brantley healthy and ready for the 2023 MLB season as he works his way back from shoulder surgery. By all accounts, he is on the right track and should be a significant contributor come the beginning of the season.

“Like everybody else, I’ve been hitting in the tunnels,” he said. “Everything is going well. I kind of like where my swing’s at right now. I think I’m too ahead of schedule with my swing, but I feel good where it is. Now we’re just making adjustments of timing and contact points. It’s all been good, all trending in the right direction.”

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