Houston Astros start 2025 season this week
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High fives for outfielder Chas McCormick after scoring during spring training. Photo: Nick Cammett/Getty Images
The Astros return to the baseball diamond with a revamped roster in Houston Thursday for the start of their 2025 campaign.
Why it matters: Houston is turning the page after snapping seven years of pennant contention when they were swept by the Detroit Tigers in the postseason's wild card round last season.
- This year, the team is playing with some new faces and a new spot on the field for likely future Hall of Famer Jose Altuve.
The latest: Astros leadership on Tuesday promoted prospects Zach Dezenzo and Cam "Aircraft Carrier" Smith to the Opening Day roster, a big moment for the pair of rookies.
- Smith, who homered his way into the spotlight during spring training, was informed he made the roster by his mother and loved ones, who surprised him in the Astros' locker room prior to Tuesday's preseason finale.
Catch up quick: Third baseman Alex Bregman is now playing for the Boston Red Sox after agreeing to a three-year, $120 million deal following a monthslong standoff with Houston's front office.
- Outfielder Kyle Tucker was traded away to the Chicago Cubs in December, followed by relief pitcher Ryan Pressly to the Cubs in January.
- The team also lost free agent pitchers Justin Verlander (San Francisco Giants), Yusei Kikuchi (Los Angeles Angels) and Caleb Ferguson (Pittsburgh Pirates).
- The team also released fan-favorite first baseman Jon Singleton.
The intrigue: Altuve, formerly at second base, will start in left field this year.
What they're saying: While the new position was an adjustment for him during spring training — he dropped a few fly balls and misjudged a throw to the infield — Altuve remains ever confident and optimistic.
- "I want to play as much as I did (when I started), and I'm excited as much as when I was 21," Altuve, 34, told the Houston Chronicle. "Maybe more. I love this game more and more."
💠Jay's thought bubble: It makes sense to me that Houston's front office wants to further juke the roster as its dynastic run winds down.
- With Altuve anchoring the team as the only active player still around from 2017's historic World Series-winning season, it's time to see some new faces on the field.
What we're watching: First pitch is at 3:10pm Thursday.
- Tickets are still available starting at $49.