The Houston Astros are known for their strategic and relentless pursuit of success in the MLB. And it is no different this season as they look to replicate their 2022 World Series success. This time, however, they are betting big on youth. The franchise is pinning its hope on the shoulders of a 22-year-old. The spotlight now is on their highly touted prospect, Cam Smith, a standout talent who will be given the chance to lead the way.
The Astros acquired Cam Smith, alongside Isaac Paredes and Hayden Wesneski, in exchange for Kyle Tucker from the Chicago Cubs in the off-season. Since joining his new team, the 22-year-old has quickly risen through the ranks with impressive showings in the spring training. With a .636/.733/.1.364 slash line, two home runs, a triple, seven RBI, and a 4:1 BB:K ratio, Smith seems to have shown enough to be relied upon. In fact, he is looking likely to make the opening day roster as Jim Bowden revealed the Astros plan for the former 14th overall pick.
We’re at #Astros camp today and one things for sure both GM Dana Brown & MGR Joe Espada made it clear Cam Smith will be given every opportunity to win RF job and Jose Altuve told @PerezEd & I that he hopes Smith makes the team for more go to @MLBNetworkRadio
— Jim Bowden (@JimBowdenGM) March 9, 2025
Bowden took to X and wrote, “Both GM Dana Brown & MGR Joe Espada made it clear Cam Smith will be given every opportunity to win RF job.” He also added that Jose Altuve told him “that he hopes Smith makes the team.” This is a clear indication of the team’s faith in the youngster. Despite only making 32 minor league appearances before, the potential absence of Christian Walker is another case for Smith’s addition to the roster. Walker underwent an MRI this week. While he appears to have avoided any significant injury, he is likely to be out for a while.
While the Astros push for regular season success is definitely a team effort that requires contributions from everyone, all eyes will be on Cam Smith. And he will look to add his name to the franchise’s lore, as he clearly has the talent to do so. In fact, Dana Brown excitedly referred to Smith as an “aircraft carrier” in February. This was in reference to his large frame and power potential. This is a clear sign that he is viewed favorably within the team.
While the Astros have taken a shine to their new recruit, Cam Smith, it seems that their outgoing talent, Kyle Tucker, has quickly moved on from the organization as well. At least based on his recent comments.
Kyle Tucker’s makes this thoughts known after being traded
During an interview with the MLB Network, the former Astros star hinted at the Cubs having a better fan base, even though he has yet to play an MLB game for his new team. “I don’t think I could have gone to a much better organization than the Cubs. The fan base here is second to none,” Tucker said. “It’s kind of been a pretty easy transition.”
If this was a veiled diss at his old team, it is understandable why he feels that way. Despite being integral to the Astros’ World Series win in 2022, he was easily discarded last season. Tucker did not ask to be traded, but Houston did not show any interest in extending or re-signing him. He was shockingly traded away as the team looked to bring in new faces. The manner in which he departed has clearly left him with a bad taste in his mouth.
Tucker is coming back from an injury-plagued 2024 season. He missed 3 months with a fractured shin before he left Houston. Despite the significant absence, he still managed to make his third straight All-Star team. Tucker will be looking forward to achieving the same success here with his new team. Hopefully, even add another World Series title to his trophy cabinet. But before that, he will be focused on the opening-day clash vs. the Dodgers in Japan.
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