BOSTON, Massachusetts — Carlos Correa steps back into the Houston Astros’ lineup tonight, batting cleanup and playing third base against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. The three-time All-Star, reacquired from the Minnesota Twins in a blockbuster trade just before Thursday’s MLB trade deadline, makes his return to Houston in a new role after seven seasons as the team’s shortstop.
Correa, 30, anchors the Astros’ batting order in the fourth spot, a position he frequently occupied during his earlier tenure with the club. His power and clutch hitting make him a natural fit to drive in runs behind Jose Altuve, Yordan Alvarez (currently on IL), and Jeremy Peña. The Astros, battling injuries and offensive struggles, expect Correa’s bat to provide an immediate boost. He brings a .267 batting average, seven home runs, and 31 RBIs from 93 games with the Twins this season, though his .705 OPS reflects a dip in power compared to his career .817 mark.
At third base, Correa fills a critical void left by Isaac Paredes, sidelined for the season with a hamstring injury. The move to the hot corner marks a significant shift for Correa, who has played shortstop throughout his MLB career. He expressed enthusiasm for the position change, noting it aligns with his long-term goals. His strong arm and exceptional range, honed as one of the league’s premier defensive shortstops, should ease the transition. Correa’s familiarity with the Astros’ system and his past success at Minute Maid Park, a hitter-friendly venue, add optimism for a seamless adjustment.
Manager Joe Espada slots Correa into the cleanup role to maximize his impact in a lineup missing key contributors. With Peña returning from a rib injury and starting at shortstop, the Astros field a dynamic left side of the infield. Correa’s presence also brings leadership and postseason experience, qualities Houston values as it pushes for a playoff spot. His 63 career postseason RBIs, tied for third-most in MLB history, underscore his ability to deliver in high-stakes moments.
Tonight’s game marks Correa’s first appearance in an Astros uniform since 2021, when he earned a Gold Glove and finished fifth in AL MVP voting. Fans at Fenway Park, where the Astros open a three-game series, will see a familiar star in an unfamiliar role. Correa’s return to the cleanup spot and debut at third base signal Houston’s aggressive push to bolster its roster and chase another deep postseason run.
The Astros, sitting atop the AL West despite a recent 7-12 skid, lean on Correa to stabilize the infield and ignite the offense. His performance tonight could set the tone for a pivotal stretch as Houston navigates a crowded playoff race.
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