Houston Astros select Jose Altuve’s replacement in latest MLB Mock Draft

The Houston Astros have one of the weakest farm systems in MLB, but could add a fun player in the upcoming draft.

In Jonathan Mayo’s latest MLB mock draft, he selected Houston over Theo Gillen Prep School in Westlake, Texas, with the 28th overall selection.

Gillen would be a longer-term project than one of the top college hitters who were also in play, but the potential could be worth it. He’s an infielder by trade, so they wouldn’t need him for a while anyway, thanks to Jose Altuve and Jeremy Pena.

He would likely be Altuve’s long-term replacement, as his glove has more potential than his arm. The timeline calls for the high schooler to be 24 when the Astros legend’s contract expires after the 2029 season. If he’s ready before then, that would only be a plus.

The Texas native possesses a 60-grade hitting and running tool with his power and ground skills just behind.

“Gillen may have the best bat of any high school player in this draft. He has a disciplined approach, quick hands and a good left-handed swing that combine to produce hits to all fields,” his MLB scouting profile said. “His hitting ability will allow him to reach most of his raw power, which will allow him to hit 20 home runs, and he should develop more pop as he adds more strength to his 6-foot-2 frame.”

While that makes sense going forward, it would be interesting to see Houston go with a second straight infielder in the first round given their strength at the position.

Last season, they brought in Brice Matthews from Nebraska. The college slugger has been a strong performer right out of the gate, currently hitting .293/.408/.500 in his first minor league season.

He once progressed to Corpus Christi in Double-A, but has slowed since arriving with an OPS of just .641 in 13 games.

Matthews could either enter the equation as a high-value trade piece or be a potential reason not to pay Jeremy Pena once they lose control of his contract situation.

If the Astros’ future infield consists of Matthews and Gillen, it could become one of the most powerful groups in the league.