The Houston Astros can’t afford to remain a superstar prospect any longer

The Houston Astros have the easiest decision of the season on their hands, but will they make it?

While not everything has worked out for Houston, one thing that has certainly worked is the emergence of star outfielder Joey Loperfido.

Loperfido was a seventh-round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft. He was not considered a top-30 player in the farm system until he was named the No. 18 prospect in late 2023. Now he’s at No. 5 and that might be too low considering what he’s showing in the majors. .

The left-hander has displayed power throughout his minor league career, but he has reached new heights this season. At one point, he led all hitters with 13 home runs in Triple-A.

His combination of power and speed is one of the main reasons he has earned respect since joining the Astros system. He hit 25 homers and stole 27 bags in 2023. Becoming a 30-30 player, even someone who can flirt with that, would be a dream come true.

When the 25-year-old was initially called up to the majors earlier this season, it was assumed he would replace the then-struggling Jose Abreu (now cut) at first base. Instead, they took him to the outfield where he surprised.

The highlight plays came from both the glove and the bat, he quickly became a fan favorite.

Over the Philadelphia native’s first 15 big league games, he had a slash line of .333/.381/.436 with one home run and five RBIs. Still, Houston decided to send him back to the minors after the short stint.

Now he’s been called back once again for another chance to stay. He made the most of it and could force the Astros’ hand to keep him not only in the majors but also in the lineup.

For starters, he delivered an incredible web gem early in the first inning that saved at least one run and potentially two.

In addition to his outstanding play in the field, he added a great night at the plate. In a party to which almost everyone contributed, Loperfido made himself known again. He went 3-for-4 with two doubles and two RBIs.

“It feels good,” Loperfido told the media after the match, “(to come) back here and (have) the support of the guys here and everyone is happy to see me again. It feels good. I can’t wait to continue like this.”

The choice is clear. Houston needs to continue to move the young man out. He now slashes .372/.413/.512 in the majors.