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.

With spring training in full swing, the battle for starting positions across MLB is heating up, particularly in the AL West. The Houston Astros are reconsidering Jose Altuve's role, with potential shifts to left field following Alex Bregman's departure, raising fantasy stakes for second base options like Mauricio Dubon and Brendan Rodgers.

In Los Angeles, the Angels face uncertainty at shortstop with Zach Neto sidelined, placing Luis Rengifo in a favorable position for daily at-bats. Meanwhile, the Athletics are looking to Seth Brown for left field duties amidst a crowded roster, and the Mariners' Mitch Garver and Mitch Haniger aim to rebound from poor seasons as they vie for designated hitter spots. The Rangers, on the other hand, are eager to see how Evan Carter performs in center field, especially with Adolis Garcia's injury.

The Houston Astros have adopted a new strategy for their star player, Jose Altuve, who will predominantly play left field this season, according to manager Joe Espada. Altuve, a seasoned infielder known for his exceptional skills at second base, has expressed willingness to adapt for the team's needs, showcasing his commitment to the organization. This transition was initially discussed as a contingency plan to retain third baseman Alex Bregman, but remains relevant even after Bregman's departure to Boston.

With over 1,700 games played, Altuve's move to the outfield is significant, considering his previous successes and accolades in the infield. The team aims to avoid frequent positional shifts, allowing Altuve to settle in and develop his outfield game. This decision reflects the Astros' adaptability and focus on maximizing their lineup's potential.

Jose Altuve, the nine-time All-Star and former AL MVP, is set to shift from his traditional second base position to left field for the upcoming season, as confirmed by Astros manager Joe Espada. This strategic change aims to solidify the Astros' defensive lineup while allowing the team to better manage player positioning following the departure of third baseman Alex Bregman to the Boston Red Sox. Altuve's versatility will be key, as he has expressed willingness to adapt for the team's needs. The Astros are looking to keep Altuve primarily in left field, avoiding oscillation between positions, which could help maintain his form and performance throughout the season.

The Houston Astros will have two games available only on Apple TV+ this season, specifically scheduled for March 28 and May 16. These games are part of a broader trend where significant MLB matchups are increasingly exclusive to paid streaming platforms. Fans should be aware that these matches will not be available on the Astros' typical regional broadcast outlet, thus requiring a separate subscription for viewing.

For fantasy sports enthusiasts, the implications of these games are noteworthy. With the Astros being a strong contender, any player performance during these matchups could significantly impact fantasy results. The fact that the streaming service mandates an additional paid subscription adds a layer of complexity for fans seeking to keep tabs on their favorite players in real-time.