Where Does Dubón Fit with Houston Astros Following Altuve Return?
It's good news for the Houston Astros that second baseman Jose Altuve is making his return to the lineup. The team is currently sitting with an on-base plus slugging percentage of .689. Houston is at 26 out of 30 teams in that category.
While the sight of Altuve at Minute Maid Park will be something to celebrate, one player on the roster might not be so happy.
Shortstop Mauricio Dubón has emerged as one of the silver linings in an otherwise middling 45-game start to the 2023 season. He spent time with the San Francisco Giants as a utility player before joining the Astros for the 2022 season.
He took the second base spot and in Altuve's absence, held a .309 batting average in his first 156 plate appearances. Dubón also held a team-best 1.3 Wins Above Replacement.
However, now with Altuve back in his normal role, manager Dusty Baker has some decisions to make about the future role of Dubón.
Going back to being a utility man is likely the path Dubón is going to take in the coming months. He can play shortstop, second base, and all three positions in the outfield. Versatility is his best trait and one that Houston desperately needs.
This does not come without a price: Dubón will see his at-bats significantly trimmed back. But do not be surprised if Baker puts him in there once or twice a week. He's slashing .309/.333/.389 with no homers and eight RBI.
Dubón has the team-leading batting average with a club-high 46 hits. Technically, the most valuable player of the reigning World Series champions. He's the most consistent right-handed hitter on the squad.
He's a good pinch hitter in the game, something Baker likely will see fit to use him for in later scenarios. Dubón can be counted on always putting the ball in play. His allure of him is his ability to have an above-average defense at centerfield and shortstop. Dubón also made five starts at third base in his career but it's not where he's most needed.
Could he see some time as a designated hitter? Sure. No matter where he's used, Dubón is not trying to usurp Altuve. It's just good to know if something happens, the Astros are in good gloves (or hands) with Dubón.
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