Astros' Bregman hints at weekend call-up vs. Angels
Not only is Alex Bregman one of baseball's top prospects, but in a few days we may find out he also possesses ace psychic skills.
Amid growing speculation that the Houston Astros will call up their top prospect in the coming days, Bregman was asked Tuesday what he sees his first big-league at-bat looking like - specifically, who he envisions facing when he digs into the box.
"I don’t know," Bregman told Houston SportsRadio 610's "Triple Threat." "I think (the pitcher is) wearing red and gray. I don't know."
A harbinger, perhaps? Because as it happens, the Astros are set to face the Los Angeles Angels - who wear red and gray road uniforms - at Minute Maid Park starting Friday.
One of his Triple-A teammates, pitcher Kevin Chapman, then managed to raise speculation even further Wednesday with a cryptic tweet of congratulations for the 22-year-old.
In what was likely the most accurate sign the call is coming soon, Bregman made his first professional start in left field Wednesday for Triple-A Fresno against Round Rock. He handled the position well for five innings before returning to his natural shortstop position. He also stayed hot at the plate, going 3-for-5 to raise his Triple-A line to .388/.414/.746.
With shortstop blocked in Houston by Carlos Correa, the Astros have been trying Bregman at third base, and now left field, so he can reach the majors quickly. The Astros, who sit just 2 1/2 games out of a playoff spot, could use the boost his bat will provide at either position.
The Astros won't reveal when Bregman will join them or where he'll play, but that isn't bothering the LSU product, who's confident he'll be making an impact at the highest level very soon.
"I’ve had some really good coaches in this organization work with me on the move to third base," Bregman said Tuesday. "I actually took fly balls in left field for the first time. I feel very comfortable there. I played out there in summer ball a little bit. I've caught before. It's fun playing different positions."