The Houston Astros recalled 23-year-old Jimmy Paredes on Monday after trading infielder Steve Pearce. Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow stated that the team will give extensive playing time to the young hitter, who will be playing primarily in the right field for Houston.
"We want [Paredes] to play a lot," Luhnow said. "He fits in well at the top of the lineup, No. 2-type guy. Our plan right now is to play him in right field, get him accustomed to Minute Maid Park. We think he's ultimately capable of playing center field, but he's done a good job all year at Oklahoma City and has been playing a new position the past few weeks. The time feels right for him to come up here."
Paredes was acquired from the New York Yankees in 2010 as part of the Lance Berkman trade and has primarily played second and third base during his career. Paredes made his MLB debut last fall, appearing in 46 games and playing third base.
The new approach by the Astros front office made a significant change with Paredes, however, moving the speedy player to the outfield a month ago. Paredes was considered decent as an infielder, but the team is hoping to take advantage of his speed and find the best combination for his skills on defense to match the needs of the team.
Paredes was hitting .318/.348/.477 with 13 home runs at Triple-A Oklahoma, and leads the Pacific Coast League in steals (37) and is second in hits (161) and total bases (242).