The Houston Astros brought back Joey Loperfido this week, trading Jesús Sánchez to the Toronto Blue Jays. Loperfido gets a second chance in Houston, and this time it looks like a real opportunity.
He was originally part of the package that sent Yusei Kikuchi to Houston at the 2024 trade deadline. With Sánchez gone, the Astros needed a left-handed bat in the outfield, and Loperfido fits that role. FanGraphs currently projects him as the starting left fielder against right-handed pitching, joining Zach Cole and Yordan Alvarez as the only regular left-handed hitters in the lineup.
In 2025 with Toronto, Loperfido played 41 games and hit .333 with four home runs, 14 RBIs, and an .879 OPS. He also hit .329 against right-handed pitchers, per MLB. He has yet to play a full season in the majors, but consistent at-bats in Houston could help him reach that next level.
This move is about more than replacing Sánchez. Loperfido already knows the Astros system and can step in quickly. If he hits like he did in Toronto and adds some left-handed power, he gives the Astros’ lineup more balance and depth. He might not start every day, but his ability to play multiple positions gives Houston options in a crowded outfield as they push to compete in the American League West. If Loperfido takes advantage of this opportunity, he could become one of the key under-the-radar contributors for Houston this season.