Carlos Correa May Transition to Second Base During Rehab

Carlos Correa is expected to start a minor league rehab assignment this week as he recovers from ankle surgery that initially seemed to end his season. The Astros are considering a position change for Correa, who may play second base instead of his usual roles at third base or shortstop.

This potential shift was first reported by Ken Rosenthal, with further confirmation from Brian McTaggart that Correa practiced fielding grounders at second base during training. Although Correa has not played this position in his 12-year MLB career, he is viewed as a stronger defensive option at second than Jose Altuve.

The Astros plan to utilize Correa at second base when Yordan Alvarez is in left field, allowing Altuve to serve as the designated hitter. Correa would revert to third base when Alvarez is the DH, with Altuve moving to second and either Isaac Paredes or Christian Walker at first base. Alvarez's recent ankle soreness could impact this strategy, but he is expected to return soon, aligning with Correa's recovery timeline.