Cam Smith not guaranteed roster spot
Astros general manager Dana Brown said Wednesday that Cam Smith could open the 2026 season at Triple-A Sugar Land “if he hasn’t turned the corner,” Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. Brown expressed confidence in Smith’s long-term potential but emphasized the need for more consistency. Smith made Houston’s Opening Day roster after a strong spring but went on to hit .236/.312/.358 with nine home runs and a 27.8 percent strikeout rate over 134 games. He started only six of the Astros’ final 20 contests and just two of their last 16 against right-handed pitching. Despite playing a solid right field in his first exposure to the position, Smith may still need additional minor-league development. The 2024 first-round pick has logged only 32 minor-league games and 134 plate appearances.
Fantasy Impact
Smith is expected to compete for a roster spot in spring training, but the Astros have indicated he could return to Triple-A if his consistency doesn’t improve. His playing time outlook will depend on his performance heading into 2026.
