WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Jake Meyers’ back spasms have pushed the Houston Astros’ unsettled outfield situation back into focus, creating additional spring opportunities for several younger options competing for playing time.
With Meyers scratched from Friday’s lineup against the Washington Nationals, attention shifts to a group that has been under evaluation throughout camp: Cam Smith, Zach Cole, Joey Loperfido, and Brice Matthews.
The Cam Smith Experiment
One of the more notable spring developments has been Houston’s decision to give Smith reps in center field, a position he has not played professionally. Manager Joe Espada confirmed earlier this month that Smith would see time there during Grapefruit League play.
Smith, 22, entered pro ball as a third baseman before transitioning to right field last spring. He handled the move well in 2025, posting 12 Defensive Runs Saved while ranking in the 95th percentile in sprint speed. The athletic profile suggests the range could translate to center.
Offensively, however, Smith hit .236/.312/.358 with nine home runs across 134 games as a rookie. General manager Dana Brown has indicated performance at the plate will determine whether Smith opens 2026 in Houston or Triple-A Sugar Land. His defensive versatility may strengthen his case.
Zach Cole’s Opportunity
Cole, 25, represents another legitimate center-field option. Houston’s offseason roster decisions signaled confidence in his ability to contribute at the major league level.
He debuted in 2025 with a home run in his first at-bat and has experience at all three outfield spots. Cole offers speed, defensive reliability, and competitive at-bats—traits that could make him a steady option if Meyers misses time.
While early projections have placed Cole in left field, additional reps in center would provide valuable flexibility heading into Opening Day.
The Joey Loperfido Factor
Loperfido, also 25, adds another speed element. He stole more than 30 bases in the minors and has the athleticism to handle center field in short stretches, though he is more commonly viewed as a corner outfielder.
Under third base coach Tony Perezchica, the Astros have emphasized baserunning and athleticism this spring, an area where both Cole and Loperfido fit comfortably.
The Brice Matthews Wild Card
Matthews, 24, has quietly emerged as one of the more notable spring performers. He went 3-for-3 in a split-squad game against the Cardinals on February 26, strengthening his case for a roster spot.
He stole 41 bases at Triple-A Sugar Land last season and fits the speed-first profile the Astros have emphasized this spring under new third base coach Tony Perezchica. Like Cole and Loperfido, Matthews brings above-average speed and the defensive range to factor into the center field discussion if Houston prioritizes athleticism.
The common thread among Smith, Cole, Loperfido, and Matthews: all four fit the speed-and-athleticism profile better than the veteran Meyers, aligning with Houston’s stated emphasis on better baserunning in 2026.
What Comes Next
The Astros have not provided a timeline for Meyers’ return. Back spasms are often short-term issues, but the absence creates a window for evaluation.
Houston (1-4-1) continues to search for offensive consistency from an outfield that ranked near the bottom of the league in production in 2025. With Opening Day set for March 26 against the Angels, the competition for center field—and overall outfield alignment—remains fluid.
Every inning now carries weight.