Jeremy Peña is focusing on a simplified batting stance this spring, allowing him to concentrate better on pitch recognition. His updated mechanics have led to improved contact rates and a slight decrease in strikeouts. However, Peña still struggles with chasing pitches outside the zone, which could hinder further improvements in his offensive output.

With a higher hard-hit rate and a league-average OPS, Peña's performance shows promise. The Astros' coaching staff emphasizes that enhancing his pitch selection will lead to better hitting opportunities. Peña's early spring training results suggest he is making strides, hitting well and being more selective at the plate.

The Houston Astros are putting a renewed focus on infield defense as they prepare for the upcoming season. After ranking 19th in defensive metrics last year, the addition of Gold Glove winner Christian Walker to first base aims to address the team’s struggles, particularly with a -14 runs saved at the position. Manager Joe Espada acknowledged the need for improvement, stating that defense remains a key strength of the organization.

This spring, the Astros are experimenting with Jose Altuve in left field, allowing Mauricio Dubón to potentially take over at second base. Dubón, a utility player who won a Gold Glove, had a solid defensive season last year, and Espada hopes that Walker’s addition will elevate the entire right side of the infield. The Astros believe improved metrics are essential, especially with pitchers like Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown leading the rotation, both of whom favor groundball pitching.

Yordan Alvarez and Jeremy Peña are ready to make their Grapefruit League debuts for the Houston Astros against the Mets. Manager Joe Espada noted that José Altuve will also be making his spring debut, playing left field, which he is learning in camp. The Astros are slowly integrating their veterans into games. Injury updates reveal that reliever Shawn Dubin has inflammation in his throwing shoulder, while outfielder Pedro León is sidelined with a Grade 1 MCL strain.

On a positive note, Lance McCullers Jr. had a successful bullpen session and is expected to face hitters soon. Luis Garcia also threw off a mound and felt good, but the number of bullpens he will need remains uncertain. Additionally, the Astros have reassigned pitchers Glenn Otto and Ray Gaither to minor-league camp due to shoulder issues. The team's cautious approach aims to keep their key players healthy for the upcoming season.

As Major League Baseball prepares for a future with technology influencing ball and strike calls, the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system is taking center stage during spring training. Starting in 2025, players will have the ability to challenge calls made by umpires, enhancing accountability and potentially improving game outcomes. Each team is allowed up to two challenges per game, and players can signal a challenge by tapping their helmets. With the system already proving effective in the minors, key Astros players like Jeremy Peña and Jake Meyers have expressed support, highlighting the need for more consistent calls.

Concerns remain among players regarding the impact of automation on the human element of the game, notably pitch framing. While some believe it could lessen the importance of catchers' skills, others argue that the challenge system could maintain the delicate balance between technology and traditional umpiring. As teams begin to strategize their approach to challenges, the upcoming season could herald a significant shift in how games are officiated in MLB.

The Houston Astros are experimenting with Jose Altuve in left field during spring training, a shift from his established position at second base. Manager Joe Espada has confirmed that Altuve has yet to take ground balls at his old spot, opting instead to focus on outfield drills. The team is cautious about Altuve's workload, scaling back his running in some drills to prevent overexertion. His potential transition to the outfield is also tied to concerns about his arm strength, which showed promise during recent cut-off drills.

Alongside Altuve, key players like Yordan Alvarez and Jeremy Peña are expected to make their Grapefruit League debuts later next week. Pitchers Lance McCullers Jr. and Luis Garcia are also progressing well as they recover from surgery, adding depth to the Astros' roster.