The Houston Astros will welcome fan-favorite Michael Brantley back to Minute Maid Park during the 2024 season. Following his retirement, Brantley was offered a new position with the Astros, this time in a slightly different capacity. This go-round, Uncle Mike will help Astros players in a mentor/coach role. The team has yet to officially announce the title or specific role that he will undertake.
The Return of Michael Brantley
Clubhouse Leader
Not only was Brantley one of the favorites of Astros fans, but he also held a reputation as one of the best guys in the clubhouse. Replacing him in the field is a tall order, but replacing that presence among the players is nearly impossible. While Yordan Alvarez is emerging as one of the newer clubhouse leaders, having Brantley around can only help.
The Astros almost lost Brantley two seasons ago. He signed with the team as a free agent in 2019 and quickly became a solid fixture with an immediate impact. During his time playing with the team, the Astros went to the post-season annually, and Brantley earned spots in two All-Star games. At the last minute, the Astros snagged Brantley back from an apparent free agency deal with Toronto Blue Jays in 2021.
Unfortunately for the team, in August of 2022, Brantley suffered a torn labrum in his right shoulder. After undergoing surgery, Brantley finally returned to the field for only 15 games of the 2023 season and the playoffs. During that time, across 57 plate appearances, Brantley slashed .278/.298/.426 while picking up two home runs and seven RBI.
The Professional Hitter
Prior to his five years with the Astros, Brantley picked up ten seasons with the Cleveland Indians. The last few seasons with the Astros were plagued with injuries, limiting his playing time but not his impact. Throughout his career, Uncle Mike slashed .298/.355/.439, along with 129 home runs. He was a five-time All-Star (2014, 2017-2019, and 2021). Brantley picked up his only Silver Slugger Award in 2014.
Brantley’s reputation as one of the best pure hitters in baseball will follow him off the field and into the dugout. The hope is that he will be able to help players through slumps, adjust swings, and instill confidence. In addition, he will be around to help mentor some of the younger players who are starting to emerge as everyday players. Kyle Tucker and Jeremy Pena have lauded Brantley’s influence in their early career development with the Astros.
Back to Minute Maid Park
With only a few weeks to go, the Astros have seemingly set a lineup with several young players. On Opening Day, they will be champing at the bit for the New York Yankees. Brantley showed up at the spring training complex in West Palm Beach, Florida, on March 5. The Astros complex is located near Brantley’s Fort Pierce, FL home. His presence was quickly noted. When Espada was asked about the appearance, he confirmed that the visit was not a one-off. The new Astros manager said that he expects Brantley to “spend some time” at Minute Maid Park in 2024, Espada told MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart.
Main Photo Credits: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
