Jake Elmore Could Have Promising Future for Houston Astros

You might not have heard of Jake Elmore, a middle infielder for the Houston Astros, but chances are you will soon. As they make their way through the first spring training as an American League club, the Astros have made it their business this year to get the word out that things are changing and not just the look of the jersey or the league they play in. There is opportunity at almost every single position on the field. If a player goes out and earns a starting spot, chances are it won’t matter too much who played it the previous season.

Enter into that scenario Elmore. He can easily play shortstop and second base and has no problem in the field as his fielding percentage is always up there pretty high. Offensively he has conflicting numbers. During his short major league stints with the Arizona Diamondbacks, he didn’t show a lot of offensive ability. Looks can be deceiving however.

Clearly, since they claimed him off of the waiver wire with the first waiver position, the Astros saw something in Elmore. What was it? The fact that he was an on base machine throughout his minor league career might have something to do with it. His career on base percentage in the minors is .388 with a .442 on base percentage last season. I’m not saying that he will definitely beat out anyone for a starting job this season. I would be willing to bet, if he can prove the ability to get on base at this level, Elmore will find a place somewhere with the Astros.

David Miller is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @davidmillerrant, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google₊.